Nagelsmann: I'm not someone who runs away

After Germany were eliminated by Paraguay on penalties in the World Cup Round of 32, all eyes turned to head coach Julian Nagelsmann. The early exit also opened debate over the future of the 38-year-old. But Nagelsmann made clear he has no intention of leaving the role.

Nagelsmann stressed that he is not someone who runs away in difficult moments. Saying he wants to continue, the manager added that in football you do not always have everything in your own hands. Reminding everyone that he has a contract running until the 2028 European Championship, Nagelsmann said the decision largely rests with the federation; if it wants him to continue he will prepare for the European Championship and the Nations League, and if not, he will go.

The manager also said he knows how the football industry works and is aware that many people will want him to leave. Even so, he underlined that he would gladly continue with the federation's approval.

Nagelsmann also revealed he had held initial contacts with federation officials right after the elimination. Saying no decision has yet been made about his future, the manager said these talks were supportive rather than reactionary. He stated that he was treated gently and that matters such as a contract extension were not raised in the immediate aftermath of the defeat.

Germany's inconsistent results at recent major tournaments form a picture that increases the pressure on Nagelsmann. Even so, the manager's clear stance suggests the process will be shaped by the federation's decision in the coming days. Nagelsmann's future remains one of the most talked-about topics in German football after the exit.

Image: BBC