The German Football Association announced that the shareholders’ representatives and the Supervisory Board of DFB GmbH & Co. KG, on the recommendation of DFB President Bernd Neuendorf, have unanimously decided to immediately terminate the contractual relationship with national team head coach Julian Nagelsmann.
This decision followed Nagelsmann’s confidential request to the federation leadership, made after Germany’s disappointing performance at the FIFA World Cup 2026 in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, in which he asked to be released from his duties. This request has now been accepted by both the shareholders’ representatives and the Supervisory Board.
DFB President Bernd Neuendorf said: “The German Football Association expressly thanks Julian Nagelsmann for his work since September 2023. He is characterized by a high level of commitment and extraordinary ambition. Julian Nagelsmann is also a highly responsible and sincere person whom we all greatly appreciate.”
Julian Nagelsmann stated: “In recent days following our elimination, I have reflected a great deal and spoken with trusted people both within my personal circle and the federation. This decision was anything but easy for me. My top priority has always been the success of the team. After such a painful disappointment, the team deserves the opportunity for a fresh start without any burden. I would like to thank my coaching staff, the federation personnel, and especially the players I had the privilege to work with. A special thanks also goes to the fans, who supported us throughout. I am truly sorry that we were unable to give you more memorable football nights at this World Cup. You deserved much more.”
Sporting director Rudi Völler said: “Following the disappointing World Cup exit for everyone involved, Julian’s decision deserves our respect. He is taking responsibility, even though he would have liked to continue, and he puts the national team above his own interests. While we all hoped for a different outcome, Julian remains an outstanding coach, and I am convinced he will continue to be successful. I am sincerely grateful for our trusting and friendly cooperation.”
It has also been confirmed that his assistants Benjamin Glück and Benjamin Hübner will leave the German Football Association as well.
Regarding the appointment of a new head coach, the DFB leadership will now seek talks with Jürgen Klopp, who has reportedly indicated his general willingness to take over the role.
In addition, during today’s meeting, sporting managing director Andreas Rettig announced that he will not extend his contract, which runs until the end of the year, for personal reasons. He had already informed the DFB president of this decision prior to the start of the current World Cup.
