Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann has committed his future to the team by signing a contract extension that will see him stay until after the 2026 World Cup despite reported interest from Bayern Munich
Nagelsmann, 36, took over as the national team manager in September 2023, succeeding Hansi Flick. Despite a relatively short tenure, he has already secured three wins in six games.
The extension is a testament to Nagelsmann’s dedication to coaching the national team. “This is a decision from the heart. It is a great honour to coach the national team,” he stated.
His previous contract was set to expire in July, following the Euro 2024 tournament, which Germany is hosting. However, Nagelsmann’s focus now extends beyond the European Championship, with an eye on the 2026 World Cup.
Germany’s recent performances in major tournaments have been underwhelming, with exits in the group stages of the last two World Cups and a premature exit at Euro 2020. The team’s upcoming challenge is Euro 2024, where they are drawn in a group alongside Scotland, Hungary, and Switzerland.
Nagelsmann’s decision to extend his contract provides stability for the German Football Association (DFB) and the national team. DFB President Bernd Neuendorf hailed it as a strong signal, especially amidst interest from several top European clubs.
While Nagelsmann’s focus is on the Euros, Bayern Munich have struggled throughout the season missing out on the German Cup and losing the Bundesliga title to Bayer Leverkusen.
The only lifeline left for the Bavarians is the UEFA Champions League where they have made it to the semifinals after edging Arsenal in a 3-2 aggregate scoreline. They will face Real Madrid in the last four in a bid to win their only silverware this season.
Meanwhile, they were initially linked with a move for Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso who insisted on prolonging his stay with the new champions.