Germany’s football association is exploring discussions with Jurgen Klopp about taking over as men’s national team coach following Julian Nagelsmann’s resignation.
Nagelsmann asked to be released from his role on Thursday after the team’s early World Cup exit.
The German FA (DFB) accepted his request and immediately ended its contract with the 38-year-old former Bayern Munich manager.
In a statement, the DFB said it will now seek talks with Jurgen Klopp, noting he has already indicated he is broadly open to the job.
Germany were eliminated from the World Cup on Monday, losing to Paraguay on penalties in the last 32. Match details
Nagelsmann, appointed in 2023, initially insisted he would stay, saying after the defeat that he is not someone who walks away.
But on Friday he explained that, after days of reflection and consultations both personally and within the federation, he had chosen to step down.
He added that the decision was very difficult, but the team’s success comes first and, after such a painful setback, they deserve a fresh start.
This was Nagelsmann’s second major tournament. As Euro 2024 hosts, Germany reached the quarter-finals before losing in extra time to eventual champions Spain.
Germany have not won a World Cup knockout match since lifting the trophy in 2014, exiting at the group stage in 2018 and 2022 under Joachim Low and Hansi Flick.
Nagelsmann, who previously managed RB Leipzig and Hoffenheim, replaced Flick in September 2023 on a deal that initially ran to Euro 2024, later extended to this year’s World Cup and then to Euro 2028.
DFB sporting director Rudi Voller said Nagelsmann’s decision deserves respect, noting he is taking responsibility and putting the national team’s interests ahead of his own.
Voller added that, while a better tournament and stronger performances were hoped for, Nagelsmann remains an excellent coach who will continue to succeed.