Germany weighs Nagelsmann's future after loss to Paraguay

02.07.2026 12:01 HotInfo

Germany's national football team is no longer in the World Cup after a round-of-16 loss to Paraguay in a penalty shootout. The match in Foxborough was meant to confirm Julian Nagelsmann's team's role as favorite following their previous game against Ecuador, but instead of advancing it sparked debate about the future of the coach and of the federation's leadership. SITA ↗

The most discussed moment is Jonathan Tah's disallowed goal in extra time. FIFA and Pierluigi Collina defended the referees' decision, while international reactions note that the disputed moment was not the sole cause of the elimination. Tah later failed to convert the decisive penalty kick, even though according to available information he did not usually take penalties before this. Manuel Neuer played his 128th and final national team match against Paraguay. Index.hu ↗

Despite the early exit, Nagelsmann announced that he wants to stay in his position, but according to several reports his position is very uncertain. The federation is intensively discussing the next steps, and Jürgen Klopp is named as the most prominent possible successor. Former national team players Philipp Lahm, Mats Hummels, Dietmar Hamann, Oliver Kahn and Bastian Schweinsteiger have also joined the debate, pointing to a lack of continuity, accountability, and a broader problem within German football. Sueddeutsche Zeitung ↗

Part of the criticism has also spread beyond the pitch, including controversy over the role of players' family members during the tournament. At the same time, following their elimination, the German team condemned hatred and racism online. The coming days should decide whether the DFB will stand behind Nagelsmann or open a new era after a third consecutive unsuccessful World Cup. Tagesspiegel ↗

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