Seven coaches exit national teams after World Cup eliminations

The 2026 World Cup has triggered a wave of coaching changes, with seven national team managers concluding their tenures after their teams' eliminations. The departures span across continents, affecting confederations like UEFA, CONMEBOL, AFC, and CAF.

Germany's Julian Nagelsmann expressed regret for disappointing the national team, stating his primary objective was always sporting success. His departure follows Germany's elimination, which included a group stage loss to Ecuador and a penalty shootout defeat against Paraguay. Similarly, Ronald Koeman stepped down from his second stint with the Netherlands after their penalty shootout loss to Morocco in the Round of 16. Koeman cited a desire to prioritize personal and family time as his reason for not extending his contract.

Other European coaches also concluded their cycles. Scotland's Steve Clarke resigned after seven years, requesting a break, while Czech Republic's Miroslav Koubek departed by mutual agreement following their group stage exit. In Africa, Sabri Lamouchi was dismissed by Tunisia after their opening match loss, and his successor Hervé Renard also failed to advance the team. Ecuador's Sebastián Beccacece's contract ended after their Round of 16 elimination by Mexico, despite an earlier historic group stage win over Germany. South Korea's Hong Myung-Bo also left his post after the team finished third in their group, falling short of advancing despite an initial victory.

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Ronald Koeman has informed the Dutch Football Association (KNVB) that he will not extend his contract as head coach of the Netherlands national team