Jurgen Klopp has informed the German Football Association (DFB) that he wants to become the next head coach of the national team, following Julian Nagelsmann's departure after Germany's shock World Cup exit. Nagelsmann resigned on Friday after Die Mannschaft lost to Paraguay on penalties in the round of 32 on Monday, marking their third consecutive disappointing World Cup campaign. Germany have not won a knockout match at the tournament since lifting the trophy in Rio de Janeiro 12 years ago.
Nagelsmann Steps Down After Paraguay Defeat
In a statement, Nagelsmann said: "I've done a lot of thinking in the days since our elimination and have consulted with trusted individuals both personally and within the federation. The decision was anything but easy for me. My top priority has always been the team's success. After such a bitter disappointment, they deserve the chance for a fresh start." He thanked his coaching staff, the support team, and the players. Nagelsmann leaves after two major tournaments in three years, with only a single knockout-round win to show for his tenure.
Klopp's Dream Jobs Revealed
Klopp, who left Liverpool at the end of the 2023/24 season citing a lack of energy, currently works as global head of football for Red Bull. Miroslav Tanjga, a former teammate at Mainz, revealed three roles that could lure him back into management. "What Klopp told me when he left Liverpool was that he had two wishes: to be the coach of the national team and of Real Madrid," Tanjga said. "I also know that he never saw himself as the coach of any other team in England, except Liverpool."
Klopp confirmed on the Diary of a CEO podcast that he would not manage another English club, saying: "I said I will never coach a different team in England, so that means, if [I did return], then it's Liverpool. Theoretically. It's possible." However, Liverpool have moved on, appointing Andoni Iraola as head coach in June after Arne Slot left. Real Madrid reappointed Jose Mourinho following Florentino Perez's re-election, leaving the Germany job as the only viable option.
Klopp's Agent Hints at Obligation
Klopp rejected the Germany job in 2023 to focus on rebuilding Liverpool after a poor season, but Nagelsmann then replaced Hansi Flick. Klopp's agent, Marc Kosicke, said: "Jurgen feels very connected to this country. I don't think he feels he has to do it at least once. Rather, he feels a sense of obligation, that he couldn't always say no to the job." Tanjga added: "At some point, I think he'll become the German coach."
With the Germany role now vacant, all eyes are on Klopp's next move as the 59-year-old considers a return to the dugout.
