Jürgen Klopp linked to Germany role after 2026 World Cup exit
Following Germany's exit from the 2026 World Cup, Julian Nagelsmann's future is uncertain, with Jürgen Klopp emerging as the top candidate to take over.
Germany's elimination in the Round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup following a defeat against Paraguay has triggered an internal review at the German Football Association. The future of current manager Julian Nagelsmann is currently under scrutiny, and Jürgen Klopp has emerged as the clear favorite to lead the national team.
According to reports from Sky Sports, the German federation is evaluating the coaching staff's performance, with a decision on Nagelsmann expected soon. Klopp, who has been working as the head of global soccer for Red Bull since 2025, reportedly has a clause in his contract that allows him to depart should the opportunity to manage the German national team arise.
This potential move comes as Germany seeks to overcome a sustained period of underperformance in major tournaments. After failing to clear the group stages in both 2018 and 2022, the exit in the 2026 knockout phase has only increased the pressure on the federation to initiate a rebuild.
Klopp has long viewed the German national team job as a significant professional challenge, and he is reportedly open to returning to the sidelines for this specific role.
The final decision will rest on the federation's assessment of the team's current sporting direction. With Nagelsmann's tenure appearing close to its conclusion, the federation may look to one of Europe's most decorated managers to spearhead a new era for Die Mannschaft.