Julian Nagelsmann has stepped down as Germany head coach after the team’s shock exit from the FIFA World Cup, bringing an end to 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 knocked out by Paraguay in the round of 32 following a 1-1 draw and a penalty shootout.The result marked Germany’s third straight World Cup campaign ending before the round of 16.His resignation came after discussions with the federation. Nagelsmann had earlier indicated he intended to stay on despite having two years left on his contract, which reportedly 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-ever penalty shootout loss at a FIFA World Cup. The result denied them a place in the round of 16, where they would have faced France.Germany had finished top of their group after wins over Curacao 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 bring veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer back into the starting lineup and for regularly using 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 finish at Euro 2024.According to reports, former Liverpool manager Jürgen Klopp is among the leading candidates to replace him.
