Julian Nagelsmann is out as head coach of the German men’s national team. The German Football Association made it official on Friday, confirming that Nagelsmann resigned after a period of intense personal reflection following the team’s World Cup exit.
The decision wasn’t quick and it wasn’t easy. Nagelsmann said in a statement that he spent days thinking things through, talking to people he trusts inside and outside the federation. He came to one conclusion: the team needs a reset.
“After such a bitter disappointment, they deserve the chance for a fresh start,” Nagelsmann said. “My top priority has always been the team’s success.”
Germany crashed out of the World Cup earlier than anyone hoped. The specifics of that elimination are still fresh, and Nagelsmann clearly felt the weight of it. He thanked his coaching staff, the DFB and the players for their commitment. But he reserved his most personal words for the fans.
“You carried us, you trusted us, you gave us energy, even during difficult times,” he said. “It truly pains me that we disappointed you and couldn’t give you any more memorable nights of football at this World Cup. You deserved so much more.”
Nagelsmann’s full staff is leaving too
He’s not going alone. Assistant coaches Benjamin Glück and Benjamin Hübner have also resigned and will leave with him. That effectively clears the bench for whoever comes next.
And that next hire is already the big question. The DFB will start its search immediately as they gear up for the next international cycle. Multiple media outlets are already pointing to one name above all others: Jürgen Klopp. He’s the top candidate by a wide margin according to reports, though nothing is official yet.
Nagelsmann came into the job with a reputation as one of the brightest tactical minds in the game. He had previously managed Bayern Munich, RB Leipzig and Hoffenheim. But international management is a different beast. Fewer games, longer breaks, and the pressure of representing an entire nation. It didn’t end the way he wanted.
Now Germany starts over. Again. The search for the next coach will be one of the most watched stories in international soccer this summer.
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