Merz’s support and the political storm
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz ignited the political and sporting debate by posting on social media his support for the national team, eliminated on penalties by Paraguay in the round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup. “Although the elimination hurts: What a game! With your commitment and team spirit, you moved our country. We are proud of you,” he wrote.
The reaction was immediate. MEP Marie-Agnes Strack-Zimmermann and opposition member Sevim Dagdelen accused him of losing touch with reality. The daily Tagesspiegel suggested that the publication was a mistake by an employee of the Federal Press Office.
The federation analyzes the performance
Bernd Neuendorf, president of the DFB, acknowledged the disappointment and held a workshop with coach Julian Nagelsmann and directors Andreas Rettig and Rudi Voeller to evaluate the team’s performance.
Despite rumors about his departure, Nagelsmann made it clear that he will not resign. “If the DFB wants me to continue, I will. And if not, they can tell me. I know how football works,” he said. Voeller backed him up: “He’s the right person in the right place.”
Klopp, meanwhile, ruled out any return. From the United States, where he works as a commentator, he said he was satisfied as Red Bull’s global football director. The German team thus begins an analysis process without immediate changes on the bench.
