Julian Nagelsmann has rejected suggestions that he could step down as Germany head coach after the national team suffered a painful World Cup elimination against Paraguay.
Germany’s campaign ended in dramatic fashion after a penalty shoot-out defeat, increasing pressure on Nagelsmann despite his contract running until 2028.
The 38-year-old coach, who took charge of the national team in September 2023, admitted changes are needed but insisted he is ready to continue if the German Football Association (DFB) still wants him in the role.
Speaking after the disappointing exit, Nagelsmann made it clear he does not intend to abandon the project.
“I am not someone who runs away. This is not the first time this has happened, and there are some things about today that need to be changed,” said Nagelsmann.
“But if the DFB wants me to continue I am going to continue. I know the mechanics of football, I know how the industry works. I know a lot of people will want me to leave but I would love to continue if the football association wants me to.”
Nagelsmann’s future has become a major talking point after Germany failed to deliver the expected results at the tournament, with questions now being raised about whether a change in leadership is needed.
One name already being linked with the position is Jurgen Klopp, the former Liverpool manager who currently works as Head of Global Soccer for Red Bull.
However, Klopp moved quickly to distance himself from speculation, saying his immediate focus was not on taking over the national team.
“I haven’t thought about that yet. I understand that my name is being mentioned now. But it’s not the time to talk about that,” Klopp told Magenta TV after Germany’s elimination.
Klopp had previously been involved in discussions around Germany’s squad during the tournament, including comments about Jamal Musiala’s role ahead of the opening match against Curacao.
The experienced coach suggested Nagelsmann could consider leaving Musiala out of the starting lineup, but later admitted the comment was unnecessary and apologised.
“Luckily, Julian Nagelsmann is still picking the team.”
He later reflected on the remark and accepted that it was not helpful.
“I could have punched myself in the face for that, but it was already too late and I was on TV. It just slipped out so casually, and has absolutely no relevance,” he said.
“What I’ve realised is, I’ll be 59 on Tuesday and I’m still an idiot.
“We are completely on your side, whatever you do with this. Nothing will come of it that is intended to disrupt the process here.”
Despite the disappointment surrounding Germany’s World Cup campaign, Nagelsmann remains determined to continue building with the national team.
The DFB will now face a major decision over whether to maintain faith in the young coach or begin a search for a new direction ahead of future international competitions.
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