Russia 2018: Germany coach staying on despite shock World Cup exit

Germany’s national football team head coach Joachim Loew attends a training session at the Fisht Olympic Stadium in Sochi.

Germany coach Joachim Loew is staying on despite the team’s shock first-round World Cup exit.

The German football federation (DFB) announced on Tuesday it was informed by Loew that he wished to remain and “rebuild the team.”

In turn, the DFB promised him support, and he was “trusted to draw the right conclusions from the World Cup exit.”

The decision comes five days after Germany, the defending champion, finished bottom of its group after loses to Mexico and South Korea.

“We had a very open and honest exchange in which we spoke about a lot of points. We are all convinced that in Loew we have a national coach who will analyze very precisely, take the right steps and lead our team back on the path of success,” DFB president Reinhard Grindel said.

Loew has been in charge since taking over after the 2006 World Cup, where he was assistant to predecessor Jurgen Klinsmann.

He had his contract extended by the DFB in May through the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

“It was important for me after a few days of reflection to personally get in touch with the DFB leadership. My disappointment is still huge. But now I want to lead the rebuilding with full commitment,” Loew said.

“It all takes time, but everything will happen in time for the start of the new international season in September.”

Germany next plays France in UEFA’s new Nations League on Sept. 6, followed by a friendly against Peru three days later.