DFB tells Nagelsmann to resign or face sack as Klopp emerges as Germany's frontrunner

The German Football Association (DFB) has told Julian Nagelsmann to consider resigning or face the sack after Germany were knocked out of the 2026 World Cup by Paraguay on penalties in the round of 32. Jurgen Klopp has already emerged as the frontrunner to replace him, with the former Liverpool manager understood to be open to returning to the dugout after two years away.

Germany’s exit came in dramatic and controversial circumstances. Jonathan Tah had a goal ruled out in extra-time before missing a decisive penalty in the shootout. The defeat extends a miserable run for the national side — they have not won a knockout game at the World Cup since lifting the trophy in 2014, having been eliminated at the group stage in both 2018 and 2022.

Nagelsmann, 38, insisted post-match that he would not step down voluntarily. He has two years remaining on a contract that was extended following Germany’s encouraging performance as hosts at Euro 2024. However, Sky Germany reported that after a meeting with DFB chiefs, the board made clear he should consider his position or be dismissed. The DFB has framed the process as independent of any potential appointment, though a departure would open the door for Klopp.

Klopp, 59, has been serving as Red Bull’s Head of Global Soccer since January 2025, overseeing clubs including RB Leipzig, Red Bull Salzburg, and New York Red Bulls. He has been present at the World Cup in the United States as a pundit for German broadcaster Magenta, and was asked directly about the Germany vacancy in the aftermath of Monday’s defeat.

“I understand that my name is being mentioned,” Klopp said. “But this isn’t the moment to talk about it — and certainly not with me.”

Nagelsmann was candid about the scale of the failure. “If you exit after the first stage, it’s not enough for German football,” he said after the loss in Boston. “This is now the third elimination in a row, so we are not part of the first-class teams any more. I am disappointed.”

The defeat leaves German football at a crossroads, with the DFB now facing a decision over whether to act swiftly or allow Nagelsmann to attempt a rebuild ahead of the 2028 European Championship.