Thomas Muller to join Germany at the World Cup? Julian Nagelsmann addresses talk of surprise role for Vancouver Whitecaps forward

Nagelsmann has addressed speculation linking Muller with a position on his coaching staff, calling the player a future candidate but ruling him out for the 2026 World Cup. Talking to Sky Germany, Nagelsmann praised his former protege's suitability for a coaching role but confirmed Muller's playing commitments with Vancouver Whitecaps make any involvement next summer impossible.

"Thomas is definitely a candidate who could hold such a position," Nagelsmann said. "What isn't there now can become one day in the future. He has what it takes to be a head coach." 

However, Nagelsmann explained the logistical hurdles, noting: "He still has a contract in Canada until winter 2026. The coach won't be so thrilled if Thomas says: 'Yes, I'll come two or three weeks later because I still want to be an assistant coach.'"

The prospect of Muller joining the national team setup was first raised by Ernst Tanner, the sporting director of MLS side Philadelphia Union. Tanner endorsed the move, saying to Sky: "Basically, I'm a fan of innovative ideas." His comments sparked the debate about whether the decorated veteran could be integrated into Nagelsmann's backroom team for the tournament.

Nagelsmann confirmed he has been in contact with Muller and that the forward is enjoying his time in Major League Soccer. 

"I've spoken with him a few times; he's having a great time in Vancouver right now, he's playing well, scoring a lot of goals, providing a lot of assists. And he's trying to advance football there," the Germany boss added. 

Muller recently became the most decorated German footballer in history, winning his 35th career trophy after scoring in the Canadian Championship final to lead the Vancouver Whitecaps to victory.

While Nagelsmann has left the door open for a future collaboration, Muller will not be in the dugout for the 2026 World Cup. His focus remains on his playing career with the Whitecaps, where his contract runs until the end of 2026. Nagelsmann concluded definitively: "I'm going out on a limb here: he won't be taking on a position as assistant coach this summer – neither for me nor for any other coach." 

Germany will therefore proceed with their existing coaching staff as they continue their World Cup qualification campaign.