Wagner's replacement: Hübner takes on assistant role under Nagelsmann
German National Team Welcomes New Assistant Coach
Frankfurt - Benjamin Hübner, a former professional footballer, is the new assistant coach for the German national team, taking over from Sandro Wagner. The German Football Association (DFB) has confirmed this personnel decision after days of speculation.
Hübner and head coach Julian Nagelsmann worked together at TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, and Nagelsmann is delighted to have him as a close confidant. "Benni is a real team player who genuinely cares about the team's success," Nagelsmann said.
Wagner, the current assistant, is leaving the national team early to pursue a head coaching position. The former striker has been linked with various clubs, including FC Augsburg and RB Leipzig.
Hübner, who signed a contract until after the 2028 European Championship, shares Nagelsmann's ambition and enthusiasm. He is looking forward to supporting the team in upcoming matches, including the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Hübner comes from a football family, with his father and both brothers also professional footballers. He ended his career at Bundesliga club TSG Hoffenheim in 2022 due to injuries and later joined the first-team coaching staff.
Hübner will officially start on July 1. The first international match he'll be part of is on September 4, where Germany plays Slovakia, the start of the World Cup qualification.
Following the match against Northern Ireland in Cologne on September 7, Hübner will return to his former home ground in Sinsheim, where the third opponent in the World Cup qualifying round, Luxembourg, will be played on October 10.
Benjamin Glück and Mads Buttgereit will continue as coaches, focusing on set pieces and goalkeepers, respectively. Hübner's strategic thinking, leadership qualities, and strong rapport with players are expected to complement the coaching team well.
Source(s): German Football Association, Julian Nagelsmann, Benjamin Hübner
Note: Hübner played 122 Bundesliga matches for various clubs, including FC Ingolstadt and TSG 1899 Hoffenheim, before retiring due to persistent injuries in 2022. He transitioned into coaching, leading Hoffenheim’s U19s to success before joining the first-team coaching staff in 2024. On May 24, 2025, he was appointed as the new assistant coach of the German national team by the DFB.
Benjamin Hübner, the new assistant coach for the German national team, enjoys listening to sports discussions on the radio, especially when it involves football. As a passionate football enthusiast, he often tunes in during matches to gain insights and strategies that might benefit the team.
