Sandro Wagner to leave role as Germany assistant coach

Sandro Wagner’s tenure as assistant coach for the German national team will soon come to a close, as the German Football Association (DFB) announced on Friday. 

The former Bayern Munich striker will step down from his role at his own request following the UEFA Nations League Final Four this summer.

Wagner has long been linked with various head coaching positions in the Bundesliga. Explaining his decision, he confirmed his ambition to step into a head coach role in the near future.

“Being an assistant coach for the German national team has been, and continues to be, a huge honor for me,” said Wagner, whose contract with the DFB was due to run until 2026.

“I will always be grateful for this opportunity and proud of what we’ve achieved with such a great coaching team. The Euros at home, in particular, will always remain an unforgettable experience for me. However, I want to take the next step in my career soon. 

"My desire to become a head coach is no secret. Starting my football coaching education in January has only reinforced that wish. I’ve communicated this openly with everyone involved, and I am thankful for their understanding. Now, together, we can fully focus on our next big goal: winning the Nations League on home soil. I will give everything for that.”

Germany head coach Julian Nagelsmann expressed his understanding and support for Wagner’s decision.

“I completely understand Sandro’s desire to become a head coach, and I respect his decision,” Nagelsmann said. 

“We’ve had open and honest conversations about it, and I’m grateful for that transparency.”

“Sandro has enriched our team with both his expertise and his personality. What began as a project for the home EURO 2024 has evolved into a longer, trusting collaboration with Benjamin Glück and the entire coaching staff. We would love to finish this journey with a Nations League title in Munich. I wish Sandro all the best as he takes the next step in his career.”