Former Liverpool manager has indicated his willingness to become Germany’s next head coach after resigned from the role following the country’s disappointing exit from the FIFA World Cup.
The (DFB) confirmed on Friday that Klopp is “fundamentally willing” to take over the national team. The football body said it would begin discussions with the former Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund coach while expressing appreciation to Nagelsmann for his service.
Nagelsmann, whose contract was due to run until 2028, stepped down four days after Germany suffered a shock last-32 elimination by Paraguay at the World Cup.
According to reports by Sky Germany, Klopp, who is currently serving as Red Bull’s Head of Global Football, has a verbal agreement that would allow him to leave the role if he is offered the Germany coaching position.
Nagelsmann’s resignation followed a three-hour meeting with DFB officials at the association’s headquarters in Frankfurt to discuss his future. German newspaper Bild reported that he was offered a severance package worth €7 million (about $8 million), equivalent to roughly one year’s salary, to terminate his contract early.
“The decision was anything but easy for me,” Nagelsmann said in a statement.
“My top priority has always been the success of the team. After such a bitter disappointment, it deserves the chance of a new beginning.”
He also apologised to German supporters for the team’s early exit from the tournament.
“I am sorry and hurt from the bottom of my heart that we disappointed you and couldn’t give you any more football nights at this World Cup,” he said.
DFB sporting director praised Nagelsmann’s work, describing him as “an excellent coach” and expressing confidence that he would continue to enjoy success in his career.