FC Augsburg sporting director Benjamin Weber has thrown his support behind England’s World Cup campaign, declaring Thomas Tuchel the “perfect coach” for the national team. His comments arrive ahead of the Three Lions’ Round of 32 meeting with DR Congo on Wednesday.
Weber spent 13 years as a video analyst working with Tuchel at Mainz 05, Borussia Dortmund, Paris Saint-Germain and Chelsea. The pair celebrated Champions League success together at Stamford Bridge in 2021 before parting company when the manager departed in September 2022.
From Analyst to Director
Following Tuchel’s exit from Chelsea, Weber moved into sporting management. He took charge of SC Paderborn as managing director for sport in early 2023 before assuming his current role at Augsburg in the summer of 2025.
Despite their separate paths, the two men have preserved their connection. Weber refers to Tuchel as a friend and reveals they remain in contact through text messages during the tournament.
He described the experience of working under Tuchel as an ideal learning opportunity. “Working with him offered the perfect chance to learn,” he said, referencing their shared path across four clubs culminating in European glory. Winning the Champions League represented the highlight, though Weber stressed the personal relationship mattered as much as the professional development.
Tactical Fit for the Knockout Stage
Weber has identified England as “one of the biggest favourites” to lift the trophy in North America. He argues that while the team struggled to dismantle compact defensive units during the group phase, the knockout rounds will suit their attributes more naturally.
“They have the hunger and the mentality, plus the necessary balance throughout the group,” he stated. “They have everything you need. They can keep the ball, but upcoming decisive matches depend more on transitions and set pieces. The squad possesses the right qualities for those situations.”
England face DR Congo in Atlanta on Wednesday with kick-off scheduled for 18:00 CEST. The match represents Tuchel’s first knockout test since taking charge of the national team, with Weber predicting the manager can guide them to the title.
“I wish him and his family nothing but the best. He is an excellent person and manager, and I cannot hide that I am supporting England during this World Cup,” Weber added.