Germany’s disappointing 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign has plunged into further turmoil, with head coach Julian Nagelsmann now under intense pressure to step down following the team’s shock Round of 32 elimination.
The four-time world champions crashed out after a dramatic penalty shootout defeat to Paraguay, extending Germany’s run of disappointing performances at major international tournaments.
In the aftermath, the German Football Association (DFB) reportedly held a lengthy crisis meeting with the 38-year-old manager to discuss the future of the national team. Reports indicate that officials have urged Nagelsmann to resign voluntarily rather than face dismissal.
Nagelsmann, whose contract runs until 2028, had initially insisted he would not resign, maintaining that he wanted to continue leading Germany if the federation still backed him. However, multiple reports now suggest he is preparing to leave the role following discussions with DFB executives. A dismissal or negotiated exit could reportedly cost the federation around €7 million in compensation.
Attention has already turned to who could take over, with former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp widely regarded as the leading candidate. Klopp, currently Head of Global Soccer at Red Bull, has long been linked with the Germany job and is reportedly open to taking charge of the national team under the right circumstances.
Germany’s early exit has also sparked questions about the future of several senior players. Veteran stars including Manuel Neuer and Antonio Rüdiger are reportedly expected to step away from international football as the country begins another rebuilding process.
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