Many managers have lost their positions at the 2026 World Cup, and one boss whose nation were dumped out the tournament this week appears to be feeling the pressure around his future
Germany boss Julian Nagelsmann lashed out at a female journalist during his post World Cup exit press conference. Nagelsmann was crestfallen after his country were beaten by Paraguay on penalties.
The four-time world champions crashed out in the last 32 after succumbing 4-3 on penalties following a 1-1 draw. The elimination, which saw a disallowed German goal spark fury and jeers from supporters, represented the first occasion Germany had ever been beaten in a World Cup penalty shootout.
It also continued their woeful streak of failing to triumph in a knockout match since claiming the trophy in 2014. Following an extended spell in the changing room with his shattered squad, Nagelsmann surfaced to confront the press.
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The discussion rapidly became hostile as the 38-year-old boss, already facing enormous scrutiny, became noticeably agitated by the reporter’s relentless probing about Germany’s ponderous build-up play. He admitted: “We had a very slow build-up play; it took ages to shift it from wing to wing.”
When the reporter challenged him once more on the identical subject, Nagelsmann erupted: “Yes, I just told you. The build-up play was too slow. I’ve already said that three times now.”
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Detecting the awkwardness, the reporter then probed Nagelsmann about his future, with his deal running until after Euro 2028. He said: “I am available. If the DFB [German FA] wants it, then I will do the Euro 2028, and if not then they have to tell me. I’m not someone who runs away.”
The heat continues to intensify on Nagelsmann, who became the youngest manager in a World Cup knockout stage in 40 years. Germany’s premature departure represents another disastrous collapse for a country that had reached at least the semi-finals in four straight tournaments between 2002 and 2014.
During his post-match media briefing, Nagelsmann didn’t hold back in his evaluation of Germany’s current status. “If you cannot beat Paraguay over 120 minutes then you are deservedly eliminated,” he said. “You should not depend on the opponents’ luck or no luck.”
He went further still, admitting that Germany can no longer be regarded amongst the world’s top tier. “If you are eliminated by Paraguay you are just not a first-class football team. I am very disappointed,” he said.
With demands mounting for Jurgen Klopp, presently serving as a World Cup analyst for German broadcaster Magenta TV, to assume the national team role, Nagelsmann’s position remains uncertain. The ex-Bayern Munich boss maintains he wants to guide Germany into Euro 2028, but the choice now lies with the DFB.
Paraguay will go on to face France in the round of 16 clash. The French booked their place in the last-16 by easing to a 3-0 victory over Sweden.
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