FIFA World Cup 2026: Coach Julian Nagelsmann resigns after Germany's shock R32 exit
Berlin, July 3
Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann has reportedly resigned from his position following the team's shock exit from the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32, marking a dramatic end to his tenure after Germany failed to progress further in the tournament, according to Sky Sports.
According to the report, following a thorough analysis of Germany's early World Cup exit, the German Football Association (DFB) had a three-and-a-half-hour meeting on Thursday, and the DFB leadership strongly suggested Nagelsmann resign.
"After such a devastating setback, and considering the challenges ahead, we cannot and will not simply return to business as usual," said DFB President Bernd Neuendorf in a statement released approximately 16 hours after the 3-4 penalty shootout defeat against Paraguay in the round of 32, as quoted by Sky Sports.
A successor to Nagelsmann has not been directly announced. However, Sky Sports reported that Jurgen Klopp's name has been circulating in connection with the German Football Association, and not just since his recent statement regarding Nagelsmann's continued tenure.
Klopp would be ready and would take over the national coach job if the DFB approached him, the report added.
Meanwhile, Paraguay progressed to the Round of 16 after a memorable night defined by VAR controversy, defensive resilience and clinical finishing from the penalty spot. The result also ranks among the biggest knockout upsets in modern World Cup history.
Germany entered the tournament ranked 10th in the FIFA World Rankings, while Paraguay were 41st, a gap of 31 places.Since 1994, only three World Cup knockout eliminations have featured a larger rankings disparity:
Spain's defeat to Russia in 2018 (60 places), Italy's loss to South Korea in 2002 (34 places), and Spain's quarter-final exit to South Korea in 2002 (32 places).
— ANI
Reader Comments
Honestly, Nagelsmann was a good coach but maybe not the right fit for the national team. Remember when he played for Bayern? Always looked a bit under pressure. Klopp taking over would be brilliant - he's got that fire and energy Germany needs right now.
The VAR controversy mentioned is interesting. As a cricket fan, I'm used to DRS debates! But seriously, Germany have been in decline since 2018. They need to rebuild from grassroots - can't just change coaches and expect miracles. Klopp might be the only one who can fix this mess.
Living in Mumbai and following European football, this is a massive story. The DFB's meeting lasting 3.5 hours shows how serious they are. But sacking a coach after one bad tournament? Bit harsh. India's football team would kill for Germany's problems! 😅 Still, Nagelsmann deserved more time.
Paraguay's achievement should be celebrated properly. Gap of 31 places in rankings is huge - reminds me of our cricket team beating Australia in 2001! The VAR controversy they mention must have been spicy. Hope Klopp takes the job - he's the only one with personality to handle German expectations.
My German friends are heartbroken. But I think the DFB should look at long-term planning instead of quick fixes. Klopp is great but he needs time and patience - something German fans haven't shown lately. Also, great to see South American teams like Paraguay doing well! 🇩🇪🇵🇾
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