Thomas Tuchel has declared he is “100%” committed to leading England at Euro 2028 despite the anguish of a 2-1 World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina. The German coach retains the full backing of the Football Association even as sections of the English press and US President Donald Trump scrutinise his tactical decisions during Wednesday’s elimination in Atlanta.
Anthony Gordon gave England the lead in the 55th minute, but the reigning world champions struck twice late on to seal their place in the final. Lautaro Martínez netted the stoppage-time winner after the South Americans had levelled earlier, ending England’s hopes and immediately sparking debate over Tuchel’s approach.
Manager accepts responsibility
Criticism centred on Tuchel’s decision to switch to a back five when 1-0 ahead, withdrawing Gordon for defender Ezri Konsa in the 72nd minute. England enjoyed just 12 per cent of possession between Gordon’s opener and Martínez’s decisive strike, prompting accusations of excessive caution against the 2022 World Cup holders.
The Mirror was among the publications accusing Tuchel of “poor tactics and incorrect substitutions”. Trump also weighed in, questioning why the coach made Harry Kane “a defensive player” as England attempted to protect their lead. However, the former Chelsea and Bayern Munich boss has refused to deflect blame. “It’s my responsibility,” he stated, insisting he currently has “no regrets” about his choices.
When asked about Trump’s remarks, Tuchel dismissed them while defending his captain. “We defended in a deep block. That’s what you do if you defend in a block,” he explained. He argued that the team became “too passive” within their existing structure before the tactical alteration, struggling to control possession. “We needed to get back on the ball otherwise you cannot break the pressure,” he added.
Euro 2028 focus
Despite the disappointment, Tuchel remains determined to guide England through the next major cycle. He signed a contract extension in February that runs until the 2028 European Championship, which England will co-host alongside Scotland, Wales and Ireland.
The FA demonstrated significant faith in Tuchel upon his appointment, describing him as a “co-coach specialist” and “tactical genius”. That support has not wavered following the semi-final exit, with chief executive Mark Bullingham praising the squad’s efforts across a gruelling tournament schedule that included 13 flights since the opening match.
Asked whether he wished to continue, Tuchel replied: “Yes, 100%.” He added that there remains “enough to improve” and he is “more than happy” to address these areas. He believes an “extra level” remains within the squad, noting a disconnect between their training quality and match performance.
Tuchel acknowledges England are not yet operating at the same level as tournament favourites France, Spain and Argentina. “There is still a gap to close. This is what we will do from tomorrow,” he said. England must first contest the third-place playoff against France in Miami on Saturday, a fixture the manager described as “the match no one wants to play in”.
Defender John Stones admitted the squad is still processing the pain of defeat. “We are still going through a lot of suffering and pain,” he said. “The nature of this game is we as players take things very personally.” With Euro 2028 approaching on home soil, Tuchel will now attempt to bridge the gap between potential and performance as England seek a first major men’s international trophy since 1966.