'Decision of the heart': Nagelsmann stays with Germany

Julian Nagelsmann, the Germany coach, has extended his contract by two years, taking him to the 2026 World Cup, in what he described as "a decision of the heart".

Nagelsmann, the former Bayern Munich coach, was appointed last autumn in succession of Hansi Flick on a contract until this summer's European Championships in Germany.

He led the team to impressive victories over France and the Netherlands last month in a turnaround from previous modest results, bringing back midfielder Toni Kroos and putting together a core squad without any more experiments.

The German football federation (DFB) said after the March matches that they would like to continue with Nagelsmann beyond the Euros, and Nagelsmann, 36, also wanted his future sorted before the Euros, either for country or a club.

DFB president Bernd Neuendorf expressed delight at Nagelsmann's renewal, saying it was "a strong signal for the DFB and the national team. After all, he is on the wish list of many big clubs throughout Europe."

The news ended speculation that he could return to Bayern in summer after the departure of his successor Thomas Tuchel.

Nagelsmann said: "This is a decision of the heart. It is a great honour to be able to coach the national team and work with the best players in the country.

"With successful and passionate performances we have the chance to inspire an entire country. The two victories against France and the Netherlands in March gave us a taste of this.

"I was very touched by the enthusiasm of the fans. Together we now want to play a successful European Championship at home, that's what we're all on fire for. After that, I'm really looking forward to the challenge of the World Cup together with my coaching team."

Neuendorf added: "The national team is more than just a job for Julian Nagelsmann, it is a matter close to his heart. Now there is planning security and everyone can concentrate fully on a successful performance at the European Championship."

Germany start the Euros on June 14 against Scotland, with Hungary and Switzerland their other group stage opponents.

Bayern Munich could now turn to Zinedine Zidane, the former France great, to take over from Tuchel, according to reports in Spain. Zidane world the World Cup as a player before coaching Real Madrid to tree Champions League titles.