The German football association has terminated Julian Nagelsmann's contract and opened talks with Jurgen Klopp about becoming the men's national team coach. Nagelsmann resigned following Germany's shocking last-32 defeat to Paraguay on penalties, ending their World Cup campaign prematurely. The 38-year-old cited personal reflection and the need for the team to have a fresh start after the bitter disappointment.

Germany's early exit marks another low point in their recent World Cup history. They failed to progress beyond the group stage in 2018 and 2022, and haven't won a knockout match since lifting the trophy in 2014. Under Nagelsmann, the team reached the Euro 2024 quarter-finals as hosts before losing to Spain in extra time, but this World Cup performance fell well short of expectations.

DFB sporting director Rudi Voller praised Nagelsmann's decision to take responsibility, calling him an excellent coach who will continue on a successful path. The federation acknowledged their performance didn't meet standards and promised to analyze why the team couldn't fulfill its potential. Germany captain Joshua Kimmich also accepted responsibility for the early exit.

Several tactical decisions came under scrutiny during the tournament. Nagelsmann deployed Kimmich as a right-back rather than in midfield, recalled Leroy Sane to the starting lineup, and brought back 40-year-old Manuel Neuer despite Oliver Baumann's qualifying performances. These choices will likely factor into discussions as Germany begins planning for the 2026 World Cup cycle.