Former Bayern Munich coach Ottmar Hitzfeld has turned down the chance of becoming the next manager of Germany.

Germany are looking to replace Rudi Voller, who resigned in the wake of Germany’s disappointing Euro 2004 campaign.

According to reports in Germany, the German Football Federation (DFB) were hoping to persuade Hitzfeld to succeed Rudi Voller by allowing him to delay his appointment until early next year.

However, Hitzfeld is unsure whether the break from the game will recharge his batteries.

“I simply can’t say what the situation will be like in six months’ time.”

“I don’t know whether I will be ready to come back with my batteries recharged or not.

“I know me. As soon as I agreed to taking the job, I would start working on it immediately. I couldn’t just switch off now and start working as national coach in 2005.”

Bild also reported that talks have started with former Holland and South Korea boss Guus Hiddink.