Julian Nagelsmann has parted ways with the German Football Association (DFB) following Germany's painful elimination from the FIFA World Cup 2026 in the Round of 32, after a 3-4 penalty shootout defeat against Paraguay in Boston. The split ends a tenure that carried the weight of reviving a national team that had already stumbled out in the group stages at the 2018 and 2022 World Cups.

How the Split Unfolded

According to reports citing Sky Sports Germany, the DFB leadership strongly suggested Nagelsmann resign following an in-depth post-tournament review. DFB president Bernd Neuendorf reportedly stated in a release issued approximately 16 hours after the defeat: 'After such a devastating setback, and considering the challenges ahead, we cannot and will not simply return to business as usual.'

Reports indicate that 'on the advice of the DFB leadership, Nagelsmann is resigning, thus preempting his dismissal.' Nagelsmann had initially expressed a desire to continue after the loss, but the association's position left little room for that outcome. His contract had originally run until the 2028 European Championship and was reportedly worth up to eight million euros per year.

The Boston Shootout That Broke a Record

The defeat in Boston was historically significant for more than just the scoreline. Germany had previously won all four of their World Cup penalty shootouts, with a record of near-flawless clinical efficiency. The only German to have missed a World Cup shootout penalty before this match was Uli Stielike, in the 1982 semifinal against France. That unblemished legacy ended on a hot, humid evening against Paraguay, making this elimination one of the most stinging in recent German football history.

Klopp Emerges as Clear Frontrunner

Jurgen Klopp, 59, has emerged as the DFB's clear preferred candidate to take over, according to reports. This comes despite Klopp having previously ruled himself out of the running. Talks with the former Liverpool manager are reportedly set to begin shortly. Crucially, Klopp is said to hold an exit clause in his current Red Bull contract that would allow him to take up a role with the DFB, removing a potential contractual barrier to his appointment.

What This Means for German Football

This is the third consecutive major tournament in which Germany has failed to advance beyond the early rounds, a pattern that has intensified pressure on the federation to make a decisive coaching appointment. A manager of Klopp's stature — a Champions League winner with Liverpool and a figure with deep roots in German football — would represent a significant statement of intent. The coming weeks will determine whether the DFB can convert its preferred candidate into a confirmed appointment ahead of the next major international cycle.