Jurgen Klopp tells Germany he wants manager job as statement confirms immediate talks
The German Football Association has confirmed it will enter talks with Jurgen Klopp following Julian Nagelsmann's departure as manager. Nagelsmann stepped down four days after Germany's shock exit from the World Cup following a penalty shootout defeat to Paraguay in the last-32 round. Despite holding a contract through Euro 2028, the 38-year-old has agreed to vacate his position.
In an official statement, the DFB announced that the leadership will now seek talks with Klopp, who has already signalled his willingness to take on the position. The 59-year-old former Liverpool manager has not coached since leaving Anfield in May 2024, when he said he was running out of energy after eight years with the club. Since then he has worked as Red Bull's Head of Global Soccer and as a television pundit for German broadcaster Magenta.
Klopp confirmed the talks are underway, stating: "Things moved along quite quickly. Julian Nagelsmann has resigned and the DFB is working on a successor. And in the course of these considerations they approached me." However, he acknowledged the complexity of the situation, explaining: "I have an existing contract with Red Bull. I've said many times how much I enjoy this job. As a person I usually honour contracts. But I've also made it clear that I'm interested in talks with the DFB."
Nagelsmann released a statement explaining his decision, saying: "The decision was anything but easy for me. My top priority has always been the team's success. After such a bitter disappointment they deserve the chance for a fresh start." He thanked his staff, the federation, and the players, adding: "It truly pains me that we disappointed you and couldn't give you any more memorable nights of football at this World Cup."
The DFB offered Nagelsmann approximately seven million pounds as a severance package to terminate his contract. Klopp indicated he would need intensive discussions with the federation to agree on key points for transforming Germany's fortunes.