Ex-Germany boss Joachim Low rejects offer to coach Asian national team sitting 55th in FIFA rankings at their first ever World Cup

Former Germany coach Low, who led his nation to the 2014 World Cup title, has rejected an offer from Uzbekistan’s Football Association to take charge of their national team, according to Bild. The Central Asian side recently qualified for the World Cup for the first time in their history and had high hopes of landing the experienced tactician.

Uzbekistan, 55th in the FIFA world rankings, are eager to make an impact at the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada and Mexico. The nation’s football officials, with assistance from their embassy in Berlin, held talks with Low about leading their debut campaign. Despite a positive online meeting, the 65-year-old ultimately declined the offer.

Low is regarded as one of the most respected coaches in world football. He guided Germany to World Cup glory in Brazil in 2014, the same year he was honoured as FIFA Coach of the Year. Low oversaw the national team from 2006 to 2021, delivering consistent success at both the European Championships and World Cups. He stepped down in March 2021 and has not taken charge of any club or national side since.

The Uzbekistan Football Association will continue its search for a head coach ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Low remains open to future national team roles but appears to be waiting for the right opportunity.