Germany Target Jürgen Klopp After Julian Nagelsmann Resigns Following World Cup Exit

Germany have moved swiftly to begin the search for a new national team coach after Julian Nagelsmann resigned in the wake of the country’s disappointing FIFA World Cup campaign, with former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp emerging as the German Football Association’s preferred successor.

The German Football Association (DFB) announced on Friday that Nagelsmann had requested to be relieved of his duties following Germany’s shock elimination from the World Cup. The four-time world champions were knocked out in the Round of 32 after losing a dramatic penalty shootout to Paraguay, marking Germany’s third consecutive disappointing World Cup campaign following earlier exits in 2018 and 2022.

Nagelsmann, who took charge of Germany in September 2023 after replacing Hansi Flick, had initially insisted he wanted to remain in charge despite the defeat. However, after discussions with DFB officials, the 38-year-old concluded that the national team needed “a fresh start” and formally requested to step down. The DFB accepted his resignation and terminated his contract, which had been due to run until the 2028 European Championship.

In announcing the decision, DFB President Bernd Neuendorf praised Nagelsmann for his professionalism, commitment and ambition during a challenging period for German football. Sporting director Rudi Völler also thanked the coach for his efforts, acknowledging that the team’s World Cup performance had fallen well short of expectations.

Attention has now turned to Klopp, who is widely regarded as Germany’s first choice to rebuild the national team. The DFB confirmed it will immediately open formal talks with the former Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool manager, adding that Klopp has already indicated a general willingness to take on the role.

Speaking in his role as a World Cup television pundit, Klopp confirmed that discussions with the DFB are taking place. The 59-year-old said he feels “recharged” after stepping away from day-to-day coaching following his departure from Liverpool in 2024 and is ready to return to management, although he stressed that detailed talks are still required because of his current position as Red Bull’s Global Head of Soccer.

Klopp acknowledged that Germany’s problems extend beyond the coach and said any appointment would require careful planning to restore the national team’s competitiveness. He added that while the timing is not perfect, he believes he has regained the energy needed to take on another major coaching challenge.

If appointed, Klopp would become Germany’s first new national team manager since Nagelsmann took over nearly three years ago. He would also inherit a side eager to restore its reputation after a string of disappointing performances at major tournaments despite boasting a squad filled with talented players competing across Europe’s top leagues.

Klopp’s achievements at Borussia Dortmund and Liverpool have made him one of the most respected managers in world football. During his nine-year spell at Liverpool, he guided the club to the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, FA Cup, League Cup, FIFA Club World Cup and UEFA Super Cup, earning a reputation for high-intensity football, strong leadership and exceptional player development.

The DFB hopes Klopp’s experience, charisma and winning mentality can help revive one of international football’s most successful nations as preparations begin for the UEFA Nations League and the next major international competitions. While no agreement has yet been finalized, all indications suggest the former Liverpool boss is firmly at the top of Germany’s shortlist.