The German soccer federation (DFB) revealed a double blow on Thursday, confirming that sporting director Andreas Rettig will not renew his contract when it expires at the end of 2026, while head coach Julian Nagelsmann announced his resignation just days after the national team’s under‑whelming World Cup campaign.
Rettig, who took over the role in September 2023, had been tasked with overseeing all of Germany’s national sides, from the men’s and women’s teams to the youth academies, a responsibility he inherited after a stint as managing director of the German soccer league and a long career as a DFB board member.
The federation’s president, Bernd Neuendorf, praised Rettig’s contributions but said the decision was driven by personal reasons, adding that the organization is now hunting for a new coach who can rebuild after a tournament that fell short of expectations.
Among the names floated by insiders is Jürgen Klopp, the charismatic Liverpool manager, whose tactical acumen and man‑management style have made him a favorite of the DFB’s board as they seek a fresh direction for the national setup.
Rudi Völler, currently the sporting director of the men’s national team, is expected to play a pivotal role in the recruitment process, while the search also includes evaluating candidates with experience in Germany’s domestic league.
Looking ahead
With both the coaching staff and the administrative leadership in flux, the DFB hopes to appoint a coach who can blend youth development with a competitive senior squad, a strategy that former Bundesliga chief Oliver Bierhoff has previously championed.