Reactions to Nagelsmann's departure: “There was no other possibility”

Julian Nagelsmann submitted his resignation after Germany's disappointing exit from the 2026 World Cup. The national coach's decision provoked numerous reactions, between respect for his gesture and the observation of an inevitable outcome for several observers.

Bernd Neuendorf, President of the DFB, wanted to thank Nagelsmann: “The Deutscher Fußball-Bund expressly thanks Julian Nagelsmann for the work accomplished since September 2023. He is characterized by great availability and extraordinary ambition. Julian Nagelsmann is also a man of great responsibility and sincerity, whom we all appreciate.”

Rudi Völler, sporting director of the DFB, welcomed the technician's decision: “After this elimination, which was extremely disappointing for everyone, Julian's decision deserves our respect. Because he takes responsibility, even though he wanted to continue building, and he places the national team above himself. Of course, we would all have liked a different outcome to the tournament and a more convincing performance from our team. But Julian remains an excellent coach and I am convinced that he will continue his path successfully. I am sincerely grateful to him for the collaboration marked by trust and friendship.”

Journalist Stefan Kornelius reports the government's gratitude: “The Chancellor thanks Julian Nagelsmann for his commitment and investment in recent years as national coach. The decision on a succession rests with the DFB. This is a personnel decision falling within the autonomy of the sports federations. And we know that the DFB has announced that it will present this decision quickly. We are waiting for it.”

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Several former internationals and observers believed that Nagelsmann's departure was inevitable. Lothar Matthäus, interviewed by RTL/ntv, draws up a critical assessment: “I would give it a score of 4. Sufficient, because there were sometimes highs. We had three tournaments with him: the Euro at home leading to a quarter-final – we always talk about an unfortunate exit, but the team did not convince in each meeting. Then the Nations League at home: fourth place. I think that says it all. Now the World Cup, where we went out in the round of 16.”

Christoph Kramer, former international and consultant for ZDF, does not beat around the bush: “There was no other possibility that Julian Nagelsmann would step down. If he had come back in a few months it wouldn't have been a fresh start, it would have been busy. We wouldn't be doing anyone a favor by not taking away Jürgen Klopp's place. There are not many people more suitable for the position of coach.”

Finally, Thomas Müller, on LinkedIn, points out the limits of the group: “When the 'German engine' is not running smoothly, we simply lack the individual class to compensate. Consistency in the idea of ​​play or the construction of a real backbone of the team have not been visible, even in victorious periods. After five disappointing tournaments in a row, concepts with deep and new impulses are needed. There is a need for consistent and modern player training that corresponds to the future game idea. We need responsibility, know-how and the courage to drive the changes necessary to one day return to the big stage of football.”

The German Federation will now have to launch the succession process, after a World Cup which accelerated the need for an overhaul. The next few days promise to be decisive for the future of the selection.