Julian Nagelsmann has resigned as head coach of Germany following the team’s shock exit from the FIFA World Cup, ending his tenure less than three years after taking charge.The German Football Association (DFB) confirmed Nagelsmann’s resignation on Friday, four days after Germany were eliminated by Paraguay in the round of 32 following a 1-1 draw and penalty shootout.The result marked Germany’s third successive World Cup campaign to end before the round of 16.His resignation came after discussions with the federation. Nagelsmann had previously indicated that he intended to stay despite his two-year contract, which would have made him one of the highest-paid coaches at the World Cup.His future had come under scrutiny during the tournament, with criticism over his tactics and team selection.Germany’s defeat to Paraguay was also their first loss on penalties in a FIFA World Cup. The result denied them a place in the round of 16, where they would have faced France.Germany finished top of their group after wins over Curaçao and Ivory Coast. However, they looked unconvincing in their defeat to Ecuador in the final group stage match.Nagelsmann also faced questions over his decision to return veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer to the starting line-up and to regularly use Joshua Kimmich at right-back instead of his preferred midfield role.Nagelsmann was appointed Germany coach in September 2023. Before this World Cup campaign, he also led the team to a quarter-final at Euro 2024.According to reports, former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp is among the main candidates to replace him.
