Jurgen Klopp is officially the frontrunner to succeed Julian Nagelsmann, who’s stepped down as Germany manager just four days after their loss against Paraguay at the World Cup
Germany want Jurgen Klopp as their next manager(Image: Richard Sellers/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images)
Jurgen Klopp is set to replace Julian Nagelsmann after telling the German football association (DFB) he wants Germany’s top job.
Nagelsmann has paid the price for Die Mannschaft’s World Cup disaster, his tenure coming to an end just four days after Monday’s defeat to Paraguay on penalties. It meant that Germany – who had been dumped out at the group stage in both 2018 and 2022 – again failed to reach the round of 16.
Despite having a contract until Euro 2028, the ex-Bayern Munich boss has chosen to leave his position – after effectively being told to fall on his sword or be sacked.
In a statement, the DFB confirmed both Nagelsmann’s departure and that former Liverpool boss Klopp, 59, has made clear that he is keen on taking over.
“Regarding the appointment of a new coach, the DFB leadership will now seek talks with Jurgen Klopp,” part of the statement read. “He has already signalled his general willingness to take on the position.”
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The former Liverpool manager hasn’t coached since leaving Anfield in May 2024. Since then, he’s worked as Red Bull‘s Head of Global Soccer as well as a TV pundit.
Klopp was working at the World Cup for German broadcaster Magenta and didn’t shirk dissecting the team’s problems to a national audience. On occasions, he was scathing.
After they were knocked out, several German football legends urged Nagelsmann to exit. Now they have their wish.
“I’ve done a lot of thinking in the days since our elimination and have consulted with trusted individuals both personally and within the federation,” Nagelsmann explained. “The decision was anything but easy for me. My top priority has always been the team’s success. After such a bitter disappointment, they deserve the chance for a fresh start. I want to thank my coaching staff, the support team, and everyone at the federation who supported us, especially the players with whom I had the privilege of working.
“A special thank you also goes to the fans. You carried us, you trusted us, you gave us energy, even during difficult times. 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!”
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DFB sporting director Rudi Voller added: “After the disappointing World Cup exit for everyone, Julian’s decision deserves our respect. Because he’s taking responsibility where he’d like to continue shaping things, and putting the national team as a whole above himself.
“Of course, we all would have liked a different outcome to the tournament and a more convincing performance from our team. But Julian is and remains an excellent coach, and I’m convinced he’ll continue on his successful path. I’m sincerely grateful to Julian for the trusting and friendly cooperation.”
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