Jurgen Klinsmann has decided to stand down as Germany coach after two years in charge of the national team.

Klinsmann has been replaced by assistant coach Joachim Loew.

“My big wish is to go back to my family, to go back to leading a normal life with them,” said Klinsmann.

“After two years of putting in a lot of energy, I feel I lack the power and the strength to continue in the same way.

“The only sensible option has been to ask Joachim to lead them further. I am very glad that he has taken up this challenge.

“I have always said that he was much more than an assistant trainer. He was always a firm partner. My role was perhaps that of a supervisor.”

“I did not manage to reach all of the players last night. I will call them over the next few days to thank every one to thank them for this incredible experience.”

Klinsmann had come under huge public pressure to remain in his post but the former international striker has decided to leave with his reputation enhanced over the course of the World Cup.

Germany finished third at the World Cup after beating Portugal 3-1 in Stuttgart on Saturday.

“I regret his decision, but we have to accept it,” said Gerhard Mayer-Vorfelder, co-president of the German Football Federation.

Germany have a friendly against Sweden on 16 August before their 2008 European Championships qualifying campaign starts in September.