The end for Nagelsmann? Germany suffer their 'next football nightmare'

Germany's national football team is grappling with another "football nightmare" following their premature exit from the World Cup, placing coach Julian Nagelsmann's position in serious jeopardy. The team's performance has drawn sharp criticism, with many questioning Nagelsmann's strategies and leadership.

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If you consider the whole tournament, the way we played, it is a deserved loss.

After a promising start to the tournament, including a 7-1 thrashing of Curacao and a 2-1 victory over Ivory Coast, Germany faltered in their final group game, losing 2-1 to Ecuador. The subsequent defeat to Paraguay in a later stage of the tournament has intensified the pressure on Nagelsmann. Former German players and pundits have voiced their disappointment, with ex-defender Arne Friedrich stating that Nagelsmann "has to face the consequences" and that the "journey continues without Nagelsmann."

Thomas Hitzlsperger, another former German midfielder, expressed disbelief at the team's struggles, calling the situation "unacceptable" and noting that Nagelsmann "hasn't dealt with situations well" in recent months. The early elimination, especially given the expanded World Cup format, is seen as a significant blow to a major footballing nation.

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Nagelsmann has to face the consequences. It is very disappointing, but that is sport. I would definitely say the journey continues without Nagelsmann.

Nagelsmann himself acknowledged the public's dissatisfaction, admitting that a survey in Germany would likely not reflect positively on him. Despite the mounting pressure and calls for his resignation, he stated, "I'm not going to step back only because we are eliminated. If the DFB [German football association] want me to continue, I am going to continue." He also praised the fans for their support during the match, even after the defeat.

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It's hard to explain how Germany got into this tournament with so many problems. It's unacceptable.

The team's struggles were evident against Paraguay, a physical and determined opponent that defended deeply and frustrated Germany's attempts to play their game. This tactical inflexibility was also noted by former Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp, who criticized the team's "wrong methods" and "wrong kind of football" in a previous match. The early exit leaves Germany facing an uncertain future and a potential rebuilding phase.

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It doesn't look good for Nagelsmann. In the last few months, he hasn't dealt with situations well.