The German Football Federation (DFB) have announced the appointment of Julian Nagelsmann as the national team’s new head coach.
The 36-year-old tactician has put pen to paper on a short-term deal that puts him in charge of Die Mannschaft until the 2024 European Championship tournament in Munich.
Previously contracted to Bayern Munich, Nagelsmann agreed to cut ties with the Bundesliga title holders, forgoing a contract that could have seen him earn around €20 million until 2026.
Eager to resume his managerial career, Nagelsmann’s next challenge will involve leading his national team, becoming the 12th manager to lead Die Mannschaft in DFB history.
“We have a European Championship in our own country – that’s something special – something that happens every few decades,” Nagelsmann said.
“I subordinate everything to the fact of having a great tournament in a great country. I have a great desire to take on this challenge.
“The appearance in Dortmund was the beginning. We will be a close-knit group next year.”
Nagelsmann will take over from Hansi Flick, whose ill-fated tenure ended with an abysmal 4-1 friendly defeat to Japan earlier this month.
DFB sporting director Rudi Voller assumed the role of interim manager, overseeing a morale-boosting 2-1 victory over France, but made it clear his commitment wouldn’t extend further than the friendly fixture.
Voller was one of the key figures in Nagelsmann’s appointment and was delighted to be able to welcome a manager he described as a ‘football expert’.
“Julian Nagelsmann was our preferred candidate as national coach when the search began,” Voller added.
“He is not only an absolute football expert but has already proven in all his positions – at a very young age for a head coach – that he can motivate and inspire a team and the entire environment.
“Julian will be with his qualities, and his personality will play a crucial role in ensuring that we will all experience a great European Championship in our own country in the summer.”
Nagelsmann will make his debut in October’s fixture against the United States before taking on Mexico and Austria in final preparations ahead of the Euro 2024 tournament.
