The 2026 edition will mark Julian Nagelsmann’s first World Cup as Germany head coach. | Photo Credit: REUTERS

Julian Nagelsmann is the head coach of the Germany men’s national football team. The 38-year-old took charge in September 2023, replacing Hansi Flick after Germany’s difficult run following its group-stage exit at the 2022 World Cup.

Before moving into international football, Nagelsmann had already built a strong club resume in Germany. He managed Hoffenheim, RB Leipzig and Bayern Munich, where he won the Bundesliga title in the 2021-22 season.

Nagelsmann led Germany at Euro 2024 on home soil, where it reached the quarterfinals before losing to eventual champion Spain. The 2026 World Cup will be his first as Germany coach.

Julian Nagelsmann’s record as coach:

• Matches: 421
• Wins: 242
• Draws: 95
• Losses: 84
• Win percentage: 57.5

Julian Nagelsmann’s record as Germany coach:

• Matches: 33
• Wins: 21
• Draws: 6
• Losses: 6
• Win percentage: 63.6
• Goals scored: 76
• Goals conceded: 34

What has Julian Nagelsmann said before Germany vs Curacao?

Before the match in Houston, Julian Nagelsmann said Curacao has the physical and technical quality to trouble Germany and compared the opener to the first round of the DFB-Pokal, where smaller teams can be dangerous because they have little to lose.

The Germany coach also confirmed that Manuel Neuer, Nathaniel Brown and Jamal Musiala would start the match. On Musiala, Nagelsmann said, “He only gets into rhythm if he gets playing time. He’ll get that tomorrow.”

Nagelsmann also said Germany’s recent World Cup failures meant it was not being seen among the top favourites this time.

How did Germany qualify for FIFA World Cup 2026 under Julian Nagelsmann?

Germany qualified for the FIFA World Cup 2026 through the European qualifiers, finishing top of Group A.

Germany sealed qualification with a 6-0 win over Slovakia in its final qualifier, ending the campaign with five wins and one loss from six matches.

Published on Jun 14, 2026