News Focus
- Thomas Tuchel manages England at the 2026 World Cup without emotional scars from historic English defeats
- The former Bayern Munich boss admits he knows the words to ‘God Save the King’ but feels too shy to sing
- He brings a different energy to the role compared to previous manager Gareth Southgate’s national healing approach
- Tuchel discovered a love for English humour, London bookshops, and gastropubs during his successful spell at Chelsea
- England begin their Group L campaign against Croatia in Dallas on Thursday
Thomas Tuchel does not wake up sweating about missed penalties from 1990 or 1996. The England manager carries no ghosts from old World Cup disasters. Unlike many English coaches, he feels no pain when people mention penalty shootouts against Germany.
The 52-year-old leads the Three Lions at the 2026 World Cup with a clear mind. His only goal is victory. He does not carry the heavy baggage of six decades without a major trophy.
Tuchel left Bayern Munich to take this job. He replaced Gareth Southgate, who treated the role like a mission to fix the nation. Southgate wrote letters about society and politics. Tuchel focuses purely on football.
Some critics might complain when he does not sing the national anthem on Thursday against Croatia. Tuchel knows the words but prefers to stay quiet. “It is not so difficult,” he said with a smile. He explained that he feels too shy to join in when the music starts.
John McDermott, the FA’s technical director, described Tuchel as “almost Latin” in his speaking style. He shows warmth and energy when talking about his players. This approach fits well with England’s love for maverick characters.
The German coach enjoyed huge success at Chelsea. He won the Champions League there in 2021. During lockdown, he explored London on Lime bikes. He searched for the best coffee shops and bookstores.
As a boy, he pretended to be Chris Waddle in his garden. He copied the winger’s style during the 1990 World Cup. Now he lives in London and calls it home. “I fly home,” he says when he lands in England.
Tuchel had difficult relationships with the media in France and Germany. He argued with Joshua Kimmich at Bayern Munich. But England brings out his best side. He feels comfortable with the humour and the way of life here.
England fans want him to end 60 years of hurt. Tuchel might not cry during the anthem, but he cares deeply about winning. He is not just an expensive foreign manager. He feels like part of the English football family now.