Nagelsmann Steps Down As Germany Coach After World Cup Exit
German coach Julian Nagelsmann has resigned after Germany's penalty shootout loss to Paraguay in the World Cup Round of 32, citing the team's need for a fresh start following the disappointing early exit.
Julian Nagelsmann has officially stepped down from his position as head coach of the German national team following their elimination in the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after losing on penalties to Paraguay. The 38-year-old coach explained that in the days following the elimination, he devoted significant time to reviewing events and speaking with close family, personal associates, and German Football Association (DFB) officials. "This decision was not easy at all," Nagelsmann said. "What has always mattered most to me is the success of the team. After this bitter disappointment, the team deserves the opportunity to start fresh without anything weighing them down further." He expressed his gratitude to coaching staff, support personnel, and all DFB officials who assisted throughout his tenure, particularly highlighting the players he worked with based on mutual trust. Nagelsmann also extended special thanks to fans for their unwavering support during difficult times, while expressing deep regret and pain at having disappointed them and being unable to deliver a successful World Cup campaign. "You deserved so much better," he said. Assistant coaches Benjamin Glück and Benjamin Hübner will also be departing their positions with the DFB alongside Nagelsmann.
