Germany’s head coach Julian Nagelsmann has finally addressed the growing chatter around Thomas Muller possibly joining his coaching staff for the 2026 World Cup.
The rumor mill had been spinning fast, but Nagelsmann has now made things crystal clear — there will be no surprise dugout reunion next summer.
The speculation started after Philadelphia Union’s sporting director Ernst Tanner suggested that Muller could be a clever addition to Germany’s World Cup setup.
The idea, though wild, wasn’t entirely out of the blue. Muller’s leadership, tactical understanding, and humor have long made him a coach’s dream — on and off the pitch.
But as Nagelsmann revealed, timing isn’t on their side.
“Thomas is definitely a candidate who could hold such a position,” Nagelsmann said to Sky Germany. “What isn’t there now can become one day in the future. He has what it takes to be a head coach.”
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What's stopping Thomas Muller from joining Germany's coaching staff?
Nagelsmann was quick to point out the reality check behind the headlines.
Muller’s contract with the Vancouver Whitecaps runs until the winter of 2026 — meaning he’ll be busy leading from the front in MLS rather than leading from the bench for Germany.
“He still has a contract in Canada until winter 2026,” Nagelsmann added. “The coach won’t be so thrilled if Thomas says, ‘Yes, I’ll come two or three weeks later because I still want to be an assistant coach.’”
The Germany boss also confirmed he’s spoken with his former Bayern Munich star recently and hinted that Muller’s still having too much fun playing to hang up his boots just yet.
“He’s playing well, scoring goals, and helping football grow there,” Nagelsmann said. “He’ll continue doing that beyond the World Cup.”
For now, Nagelsmann’s dugout will remain without the “Raumdeuter” — but the door isn’t fully closed. Knowing Muller, he might one day swap his boots for a clipboard. Just not in 2026.
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