Julian Nagelsmann has ended speculation over his future by signing a new deal with the German national team which will take him until the 2026 World Cup.

There had been heavy speculation in recent days that he could return to Bayern Munich a year after he was replaced by Thomas Tuchel. 

Premier League sides Liverpool and Manchester United were also said to be interested. 

In a statement, Nagelsmann said: 'This is a decision of the heart. It is a great honor to be able to train the national team and work with the best players in the country. 

'With successful, passionate performances we have the chance to inspire an entire country. 

Julian Nagelsmann has signed a new deal with Germany until after the 2026 World Cup

'The two wins against France and the Netherlands in March really touched me. We want to play a successful home European Championship together and I'm really looking forward to it together with my coaching team Challenge of a World Cup.'

Bernd Beuendorf, the president of the German football federation, acknowledged that it was an important move to tie Nagelsmann down due to interest from top European sides.

He said: 'It is a strong signal for the DFB and the national team that Julian Nagelsmann will remain head coach beyond the home Euros. Because he was on the list of many big clubs across Europe. 

'But the national team is for Julian Nagelsmann more than just a job, it's a real matter of the heart. Now we have planning security and everyone can focus entirely on a successful performance at the Euros.'

Nagelsmann had a shaky start to life as Germany manager, after he arrived at a time when the country had won just four out of their prior 12 games. 

After beating United States in his first game, Germany drew with Mexico and suffered defeats to Turkey and Austria. 

However, in the March international fixtures, Germany beat two European heavyweights in France and Netherlands - giving them some optimism going into the home Euros this summer. 

Rudi Voller, director of the men's national team, said: 'We were already absolutely convinced of Julian Nagelsmann before the recent successful international matches. But they have shown once again what enthusiasm Julian and his staff can rekindle in Germany. 

'He is an outstanding coach, a tactical fox who not only has great football expertise, but can also inspire every player with his passion. He's fired up for the national team and for success. I'm very happy that we will continue on this path together after the home Euros.'

The announcement comes just two days after reports suggested he was closing in on a return to Bayern Munich. 

Bayern have been on the hunt for a new manager since revealing earlier this year that they would be moving on from Thomas Tuchel - who replaced Nagelsmann when he was sacked by the club last March.

Nagelsmann had also been linked with Liverpool who are looking for a replacement to the departing Jurgen Klopp, and Manchester United where Erik ten Hag's future is uncertain.

Germany play Ukraine and Greece in June before the start of the Euros, where they have been drawn in a group including Scotland, Hungary and Switzerland.