2026 World Cup: Nagelsmann Refuses To Quit After Germany’s Shock Exit

Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann has ruled out stepping down after his side’s unexpected exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting he remains committed to the job if the German Football Association decides to keep him.

Germany crashed out in the Round of 32 after losing on penalties to Paraguay in Boston, ending their campaign far earlier than expected.

Despite the disappointment, Nagelsmann said he has no intention of walking away and is ready to lead the country into the European Championship and the Nations League if given the opportunity.

“This is no longer in my hands but I am ready if ⁠they want,” Nagelsmann said ​of his future. “If someone does not want this then they have to tell me. I want to continue.”

“I’m not someone who runs away. I want to continue, but in football, ‌you don’t always have control over things. If the DFB (German FA) wants it, then I will prepare for the European Championship and the Nations League.

“There was more possible (in this tournament). We would have liked to measure ourselves against France in the round of 16. But as it is ⁠it is just not ⁠good enough.”

Nagelsmann also backed his squad, saying the team remains united despite the painful defeat and stressing that progress cannot happen overnight. He added that he still believes Germany are capable of producing far better performances.

The defeat also ended one of Germany’s proud World Cup records. It was the first time the country had ever lost a penalty shootout at the tournament, with Paraguay prevailing 4-3 after Jonathan Tah sent his spot-kick high over the crossbar.

While several experienced members of the squad may not still be playing by the 2030 World Cup, Germany can look to a younger generation for hope. Jamal Musiala and Florian Wirtz are expected to be at their peak by then, while highly rated teenager Lennart Karl is also set to return after missing this year’s tournament through injury.