Völler stays as DFB sport director after Klopp's personal plea, clearing path for new era

World Cup fallout

Germany crashed out of the 2026 World Cup in the round of 16, losing to Paraguay. The shock exit prompted Julian Nagelsmann to resign as head coach after intense public pressure. The DFB was left searching for a new coach and facing questions about its sporting leadership.

Völler stays on

Rudi Völler, the 66-year-old sport director, had considered leaving as well. But after a series of phone calls, he announced on Tuesday at the DFB campus in Frankfurt that he would fulfil his contract until Euro 2028. "Das Gesamtpaket hat den Ausschlag gegeben, dass ich weitermache," he said, referring to the encouragement he received from key figures.

It would have been no problem for me to put an end to it. But this is all too close to my heart. I enjoy doing it and will continue to help in my own way.

Klopp's personal plea

Jürgen Klopp, the former Dortmund and Liverpool coach and the DFB's top candidate, called Völler on Saturday to personally ask him to stay. Klopp, who has no experience with national teams, said Völler's knowledge of DFB structures would be invaluable. "Ich habe weder Nationalmannschaft gespielt, noch irgendwann mal eine trainiert," Klopp noted, adding that he had only played for the student national team twice.

If it comes to that, it would be totally helpful to have someone who knows the processes. Rudi with his football experience, but above all with his many years of work in the association. Whereas I, if I were to become it, have no experience at all.

Klopp stressed that he would not be the obstacle: "I told him: it wouldn't fail because of me."

Red Bull's green light

Klopp remains under contract as Head of Global Soccer at Red Bull until 2029, a potential hurdle to his DFB appointment. Red Bull CEO Oliver Mintzlaff also called Völler, telling him: "Rudi, you have to carry on. With Jürgen it will work out great." Völler said the call pleased him and that all sides are seeking solutions.

Rudi, you have to carry on. With Jürgen it will work out great, it won't be a problem, you will work together superbly.

The road ahead

Völler stressed that Klopp's appointment is not yet finalised, but he is optimistic. "Es hat sich schnell herauskristallisiert, dass es am Ende auch funktionieren kann und wird," he said. He plans to support the new coach, whoever it is, and take pressure off when needed. "All eyes will initially be on Jürgen. If it gets too much for him, then I'll be there and lend him a hand."