The German Football Association (DFB) have confirmed that head coach Joachim Löw will step down from his role with the Germany national team after the European Championships this summer.
It ends a 17-year-long affiliation with the DFB after first joining as assistant head coach. Löw has been in charge of Die Mannschaft since replacing Jurgen Klinsmann in 2006.
He led Germany to the final of Euro 2008 and 2014 FIFA World Cup success in Brazil.
Löw’s contract was set to expire in 2022, but has asked to be released from his deal following the re-scheduled Euros 2020.
“I take this step very consciously, full of pride and enormous gratitude, but at the same time continue to be very motivated when it comes to the upcoming European Championship tournament,” declared Löw upon the announcement.
“Proud, because it is something very special and an honor for me to be involved in my country.
“And because I have been able to work with the best footballers in the country for almost 17 years and support them in their development.
“I have great triumphs with them and painful defeats, but above all many wonderful and magical moments – not just winning the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.
“I am and will remain grateful to the DFB, which has always provided me and the team with an ideal working environment.”
He added: “I still feel the unconditional will as well as great energy and ambition for the upcoming European Championship.
“I will do my best to make our fans happy and successful at this tournament. I also know that this applies to the entire team. “
The 61-year-old will attempt to win one final major tournament with Germany before stepping away from management.
The team underwent a mini rebuild after a disastrous defence of their World Cup crown in 2018 and also missed out on the latter stages of the inaugural UEFA Nations League.
The search for a replacement for Löw is now on with Jürgen Klopp one of the frontrunners after a difficult season with Liverpool, Bayern Munich boss, Hansi Flick is also another candidate.
