Wagner's replacement: Hübner assumes role as assistant for Nagelsmann
Germany's National Team Welcomes New Assistant Coach
Frankfurt/Main - Julian Nagelsmann has announced a key addition to his coaching staff ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Former professional footballer Benjamin Hübner will take over as assistant coach from Sandro Wagner, who is leaving the position to pursue a head coaching career.
"I have known Benni well from our three-year collaboration at Hoffenheim," said Nagelsmann. "He has always been a dedicated team player who put the team's success before his personal interests."
Wagner, the current assistant coach, will exit the German Football Association (DFB) team a year before his contract ends. He is aiming for a head coaching position and has been linked to several clubs, including FC Augsburg and RB Leipzig.
Hübner, who has agreed to a contract lasting until after the 2028 European Championship, expressed his honor in joining the national team. He highlighted his successful tenure under Nagelsmann at Hoffenheim as a pivotal influence in his career.
Hübner comes from a footballing family. His father Bruno, as well as his brothers Christoph and Florian, were also professionals. He ended his playing career at Bundesliga club TSG Hoffenheim in 2022 due to an injury and served as Christian Ilzer's co-trainer in the previous season.
Wagner will lead the national team for the last time at the Nations League Final Four in Munich on June 4 against Portugal. The final or third-place game will take place four days later, either in the Allianz Arena or in Stuttgart.
Hübner will officially commence on July 1. His first match alongside Nagelsmann will take place on September 4 in Bratislava against Slovakia, marking the start of the World Cup qualifiers.
"I am looking forward to joining the team on the pitch in September and, of course, to the World Cup next year, for which we will strive," said Hübner.
Benjamin Glück, Nagelsmann's close confidant, will continue to advise him intensively. Hübner is expected to manage the sporting aspects that were previously within Wagner's remit.
New coach's background and skills
Hübner's extensive professional experience and keen understanding of players' needs have been praised by Rudi Völler, the DFB sporting director. Nagelsmann described Hübner as a team player with strong leadership qualities.
Brief mention of contract and future
Hübner has signed a three-year contract as assistant coach and will work alongside Benjamin Glück and Mads Buttgereit as part of the German national team's technical staff. Hübner expressed his enthusiasm about contributing to Germany's future successes.
"Joining the German National Team provides a unique opportunity for Benjamin Hübner to contribute to the sport he's so passionate about, having grown up in a family of professional footballers," said Nagelsmann.
"As a dedicated team player, Hübner's extensive professional experience and affinity for sports, particularly football, make him an ideal addition to our coaching staff, especially considering his family's rich footballing history," added Nagelsmann.
