Jurgen Klopp and the German Football Association (DFB) are finalizing the last terms before signing an official contract. The 59-year-old coach wants to take on this job and is only waiting for the procedures to be completed to replace Nagelsmann.

This information emerged shortly after the DFB confirmed it would contact Klopp. At the time, the association stated that the former Liverpool coach had signaled his readiness for the role, but negotiations had not yet begun. Now, matters have taken a significant step forward as Klopp has agreed to take on the position.

Jurgen Klopp reacts during the penalty shootout in Germany's loss to Paraguay in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup at Boston in Foxborough, 29/6. *Photo: AFP*

German football has just experienced another disappointing World Cup. The four-time world champions were eliminated by Paraguay in the round of 16 after a penalty shootout, extending a streak of declining performances in major tournaments. Since winning in 2014, they have failed to reach the quarterfinals three consecutive times.

Following the defeat, Nagelsmann initially stated he had no intention of resigning. The 38-year-old coach asserted he was "not one to run away" from difficulties. However, after days of consideration and discussions with close associates and DFB leadership, he decided to step down.

In his farewell statement, Nagelsmann said his priority had always been the team's success. After the shock of early elimination, he believed the Germany national team needed a fresh start, which led him to proactively terminate his contract. According to Bild, Nagelsmann will receive approximately 7 million euros (8 million USD) in compensation after leaving the coaching position.

The DFB quickly accepted this proposal. Sports director Rudi Voller stated that Nagelsmann's decision deserved respect because he took responsibility and prioritized the team's interests over his own. DFB president Bernd Neuendorf also acknowledged that the team's performance at the 2026 World Cup did not meet German football standards and that the association needed a comprehensive evaluation of the reasons for the failure.

Nagelsmann arrives at the stadium before Germany's match against Paraguay in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup in Foxborough, Massachusetts, 29/6. *Photo: AP*

Nagelsmann was appointed in 2023 after Hansi Flick's dismissal. He led Germany to the quarterfinals of Euro 2024 on home soil, where they lost to Spain after extra time. Although his contract had been extended until Euro 2028, the disappointing World Cup results brought his tenure to an early end.

Klopp will manage a national team for the first time. Throughout his coaching career, he has only been involved in club football. The 59-year-old coach made his name at Mainz, led Borussia Dortmund back to prominence with two consecutive Bundesliga titles, before embarking on a successful period with Liverpool.

During his nine years at Anfield, Klopp helped Liverpool win seven major titles, notably the 2019 Champions League and the 2020 Premier League season, ending the Merseyside club's 30-year domestic title drought.

He left Liverpool in the summer of 2024, citing "exhaustion". In early 2025, Klopp took on the role of global head of football for the Red Bull group, responsible for professional development across its network of clubs.

Over the past year, Klopp was repeatedly linked with major clubs, including Real Madrid. However, he dismissed these rumors, stating he had no plans to return to club coaching.

The 2026 World Cup marked Klopp's first regular public appearance since leaving Liverpool. He worked as a commentator for German television and became a focal point through his statements.

Jurgen Klopp (left) and coach Julian Nagelsmann give an interview after Germany's loss to Paraguay in the round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup in Foxborough, near Boston, 29/6. *Photo: AP*

Just before Germany's opening match, Klopp drew attention by saying, "Fortunately, Julian Nagelsmann is still the one picking the squad." The phrase "still the one" led many to believe he was about to succeed Nagelsmann. Klopp later explained it was a slip of the tongue and apologized.

Nevertheless, that statement fueled speculation that it was only a matter of time before Klopp coached the national team. When Germany was eliminated early and Nagelsmann resigned, Klopp quickly became the top candidate, almost unopposed.

The task awaiting him will not be easy. Germany has not won a World Cup knockout match since their championship in 2014. They were eliminated from the group stage in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, then exited in the first knockout round of the 2026 World Cup. In the Euros, they have not reached the final since 2008.

Beyond improving performance, Klopp must restore fan confidence after years of consistent team disappointment. With his energetic football style, inspirational ability, and proven club-level success, he is expected to usher in a new era for the team nicknamed "Die Mannschaft" (The Team).

Key moments from Germany's loss to Paraguay

By Hoang An