Germany will enter talks with Jurgen Klopp after Julian Nagelsmann stepped down following their surprise World Cup 2026 exit, with the DFB confirming the former Liverpool manager has signalled his willingness to take the job
Nathan Ridley
11:40, 03 Jul 2026Updated 11:45, 03 Jul 2026
Jurgen Klopp is closing in on a return to management
Jurgen Klopp is closing in on a return to management(Image: Richard Sellers/Sportsphoto/Allstar via Getty Images)
The German Football Association (DFB) has confirmed it will hold discussions with Jürgen Klopp following Julian Nagelsmann's resignation in the aftermath of their stunning World Cup elimination.
Nagelsmann's spell in charge concluded merely four days after Monday's penalty shootout loss to Paraguay, with Germany crashing out before the last 16.
Despite being contracted through to Euro 2028, the former Bayern Munich head coach has opted to vacate his role. In an official statement, the DFB acknowledged both Nagelsmann's exit and revealed that Klopp, 59, has expressed interest in succeeding him.
"Regarding the appointment of a new coach, the DFB leadership will now seek talks with Jurgen Klopp," they said. "He has already signalled his general willingness to take on the position."
The ex-Anfield chief has been out of management since departing Liverpool in May 2024. Subsequently, he's undertaken roles with Red Bull as their Head of Global Soccer alongside television punditry work.
Klopp had been covering the World Cup for German network Magenta during Die Mannschaft's underwhelming tournament run. Following their elimination, numerous German footballing icons called for Nagelsmann to resign, reports the Mirror.
Their calls have now been answered. "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.
Julian Nagelsmann has left his role
Julian Nagelsmann has left his role(Image: Harry Langer/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images)
"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!".
DFB sporting director Rudi Voller responded: "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.
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"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."