Gordon revealed that he has since increased his tally to nine Spanish lessons in total. He acknowledged that learning the language had been difficult but explained that regular practice had made the process easier as he begins his career in Catalonia.

International Ambitions

The winger is preparing for his first World Cup tournament having earned 18 caps for the senior national team. He featured in England’s 3-0 warm-up victory over Costa Rica in Orlando and was subsequently seeking a place in the starting line-up for the match against Croatia in Dallas.

Gordon expressed excitement at the prospect of hearing the national anthem at the tournament. He highlighted his direct style and pace as qualities he brings to the team, emphasising his aim to be effective in decisive moments.

The winger previously won the Under-21 European Championship with England in 2023.

Tuchel’s Methods and Personal Discipline

Gordon offered insight into his relationship with England manager Thomas Tuchel, describing the coach as “distinctive, sarcastic and funny” away from training. He noted that players feel able to be themselves under Tuchel, suggesting this is not always the case with every manager.

The Barcelona new signing also detailed the importance of meditation in his daily routine. He explained that the practice helps him focus on specific objectives for training and matches, providing calm that allows him to direct his decisions towards his goals. Gordon added that meditation helps him move on from errors and remain in the present moment during games.

Tactical Approach Under Scrutiny

Critics have targeted Tuchel’s decision-making during the defeat to Argentina, particularly his perceived negative substitutions when England held the lead. The manager has been accused of reverting to an outdated, physical style of play that relies on pace and directness rather than technical possession.

Observers suggest Tuchel’s approach contradicts the direction of England’s youth development. The squad was notably missing several gifted ball players, with Adam Wharton, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Cole Palmer absent from the tournament. Meanwhile, the closing stages of the semi-final reportedly saw England resorting to long balls towards defender Dan Burn, a tactic at odds with the risk-taking, possession-based football that has brought success at younger age groups.

The Foreign Coach Debate

England’s exit has reignited debate over the Football Association’s reliance on overseas managers. Tuchel is the third foreign coach to lead the senior side, yet the tournament winners followed a different path. Spain lifted the trophy under Luis de la Fuente, a coach who progressed through the national setup having previously guided the country’s U19 and U21 teams to European titles.

Argentina’s Lionel Scaloni, who defeated Tuchel’s side in the semi-final, similarly rose through the domestic coaching ranks before securing World Cup glory in 2022. This success contrasts with other high-profile foreign appointments that faltered: Brazil fell in the last 16 under Carlo Ancelotti, Portugal exited early with Roberto Martínez, and the United States suffered a heavy defeat to Belgium under Mauricio Pochettino.

Youth Success vs Senior Pragmatism

The disconnect between England’s senior and youth teams has become a particular concern. The U21 side has won the past two European Championships by dominating possession and encouraging players to take risks. Interim senior manager Lee Carsley, who led those age-group triumphs, demanded bravery on the ball—an approach seemingly abandoned by the senior squad in favour of pragmatic, safety-first football.

Tuchel publicly lamented England’s “DNA” and a historical lack of care in possession, yet critics argue he compounded the issue by selecting a squad ill-suited to breaking down organised opponents.

What Happens Next

Despite the backlash, Tuchel is expected to remain in charge for the next tournament cycle. The Football Association is conducting a review of the World Cup campaign, with bridges to rebuild between the coaching staff and supporters. However, with no male team led by a foreign manager having ever secured the World Cup, questions persist over whether England can achieve ultimate success without a coach embedded in the national system.

England secured third place at the tournament—their best finish at a World Cup on foreign soil—following an entertaining 6-4 victory over France on Saturday. Kane was an unused substitute during the match, which concluded a campaign that ended in disappointment after a last-four exit to Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina.

Tuchel’s Learning Curve

Tuchel, who succeeded Gareth Southgate in 2025 and signed a contract extension before the tournament, faced heavy criticism for his tactical approach against Argentina. The German switched to a back five to protect a 1-0 lead, a move that ultimately failed to prevent defeat.

Kane acknowledged the disappointment but offered a robust defence of his manager. “It’s his first major tournament,” Kane said. “He’ll learn a lot from the players, the situations, the pressures, the travel.”

The captain described the atmosphere Tuchel has cultivated as “the best England group I’ve been a part of in terms of togetherness.” He added that Tuchel “not only gave the players belief but he gave the country belief that it was our year.”

Nations League Priority

With England facing Spain, Croatia and Czechia in the forthcoming Nations League, Kane emphasised the competition’s significance. The Three Lions will begin their campaign with a rematch of the Euro 2024 final against Spain at Wembley on 26 September.

Kane argued that testing themselves against top-tier opposition is essential after England were relegated from the top Nations League group in 2022 under Southgate, limiting their preparation against elite teams. They earned promotion in 2024.

“The last 30 minutes of Argentina is not the team we want to be,” Kane stated. “The Nations League will be big for us, against Spain and Croatia, big teams. Getting used to those big environments and finding our best form against those teams… we have to learn, improve.”

Processing the Pain

Having lost in two World Cup semi-finals and two European Championship finals during his international career, Kane understands the emotional weight of near-misses. He admitted the squad remains in a “grieving stage” following the Argentina defeat.

“Fans are going to be angry and we understand it,” he said. “When it doesn’t go your way you have to take the criticism. We’re all willing to do that, to dare to reach the biggest goal of all.”

Kane indicated that detailed discussions about future improvements would take place once emotions settle, with the captain planning conversations with Tuchel and teammates ahead of the next international camp.

The trio undertook the challenge following Norway’s surprise progress to the last eight, which prompted their star striker Erling Haaland to tease Rooney publicly. The former England captain had declared he would row the River Mersey if Norway advanced, but instead fulfilled the promise alongside his BBC punditry colleagues on the famous New York waterway.

Punditry chemistry

The forfeit has highlighted the growing bond between the three former England internationals, who have formed a popular presenting team during the tournament. Speaking about their partnership, Rooney compared their dynamic to playing on the pitch, noting the importance of eye contact and understanding when to speak.

Richards praised the application of his colleagues, particularly given the scale of the BBC audience, which has reached 24 million viewers. He acknowledged that working from the broadcaster’s Salford base presents different challenges compared to other studios, requiring extra effort to engage the audience.

The trio first worked together during England’s goalless draw with Ghana on 23 June, and have since developed a reputation for candid analysis. Rooney highlighted their mutual respect and thorough preparation, explaining that they assist each other alongside the production team before broadcasts.

Analysis and honesty

The group have not shied away from criticism during the tournament. Rooney recently questioned England manager Thomas Tuchel’s decision to adopt defensive tactics during the team’s 2-1 defeat against Argentina, arguing that it was important to offer constructive analysis rather than praise performances that did not warrant it.

Hart, meanwhile, has stressed the importance of representing players’ perspectives when offering opinions. The former Manchester City goalkeeper explained that while pundits must remain fair, they should also explain why players might struggle in certain situations, particularly given the exceptional standard of competition at a World Cup.

The trio’s approach has emphasised relatability and honesty, with Richards noting that they maintain the same banter on air as they share in private. Their success during their first major tournament working together suggests the partnership may continue for future competitions.

Alexis Mac Allister and Lautaro Martínez scored the goals that sent the world champions through to the final, leaving Thomas Tuchel’s side to reflect on another tournament exit at the penultimate stage. The defeat extends England’s wait for a first men’s World Cup triumph since 1966.

Tuchel dismisses ‘curse’ talk

Tuchel dismissed suggestions of an “English curse” after the match. “I don’t believe so much in an English thing and a curse or whatever,” he said. “It’s repeating itself in different moments. It’s different coaches, different players, different situations.”

The match saw Argentina employ physical tactics during the opening half-hour, with several England players subjected to heavy challenges. The South American side eventually found their breakthrough through Mac Allister and Martínez, both of whom were part of Argentina’s 2022 World Cup winning squad alongside Enzo Fernández.

Falklands banner sparks political row

The result was not the only talking point from the encounter. After the final whistle, Argentina players displayed a banner asserting their nation’s claims to the Falkland Islands, a British overseas territory known as the Malvinas in Argentina. Lisandro Martínez was among those involved in waving the banner.

The incident has drawn a political response in the UK. A spokesperson for Prime Minister Keir Starmer backed calls for FIFA to investigate the matter. “I would just say, the World Cup might not be ours, but the Falkland Islands definitely are. Our position is unchanged,” the spokesperson said. “Self-determination rests with the islanders, and our commitment to the Falklands will never waver.”

The spokesperson added that “politics should stay out of football” but noted that “potential action is a matter for Fifa.”

Martínez defended the gesture, stating: “I can picture a Malvinas veteran seeing that and weeping. I don’t know if there might be sanctions or not, but what they did was display that banner and assert that the islands belong to us.”

What next for both sides

England now exit the tournament despite having navigated a path that included victory over DR Congo. Tuchel’s team were unable to overcome the defending champions, who advance to face Spain in the final.

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.

The Three Lions surrendered their advantage to suffer a 2-1 loss, a result that invited immediate comparisons with the cautious approaches of previous eras. Anthony Gordon had given England the lead shortly after half-time, converting a Morgan Rogers cross, but the team’s subsequent collapse proved costly.

Defensive retreat sparks criticism

According to reports, several England players could not understand why Tuchel opted to switch to a back five and play so defensively with more than 30 minutes remaining. The statistics illustrated the passivity: England managed just 12 per cent possession between Gordon’s 55th-minute opener and conceding the decisive second goal, and less than eight per cent for a 25-minute spell after the second drinks break.

Harry Kane was described as “invisible” during the contest, dropping deep to clear the ball rather than lead the attack, whilst the midfield struggled to gain any foothold. Enzo Fernández equalised for Argentina with a long-range strike, finding himself under no pressure from the retreating English defence.

The approach drew criticism from former Germany forward Thomas Müller and former England striker Wayne Rooney, who told the BBC that Tuchel’s tactics were “asking for trouble”.

Contrasting fortunes on the touchline

The tactical battle between Tuchel and his Argentinian counterpart Lionel Scaloni proved decisive. Whilst Tuchel withdrew Gordon for defender Ezri Konsa and introduced Nico O’Reilly into a fading midfield, Scaloni made attacking substitutions that shifted the momentum, removing defensive midfielder Leandro Paredes for winger Nicolás González.

Tuchel’s failure to utilise his bench strength proved contentious. Pace options including Noni Madueke, Marcus Rashford and Eberechi Eze remained unused, as did Bukayo Saka, who was carrying an Achilles injury. The manager appeared to show no faith in Saka’s fitness despite the winger’s potential to exploit tired defenders. Kobbie Mainoo did not feature, whilst Jordan Henderson was unavailable due to a broken wrist.

Squad selection questioned

The post-mortem has also focused on Tuchel’s squad composition. The German omitted creative talents Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, Morgan Gibbs-White and Trent Alexander-Arnold from his selection, prioritising physicality over technical invention. Yet when England needed to relieve pressure against Argentina, the pacey alternatives on the bench stayed seated.

Injury concerns further complicated Tuchel’s options. Reece James and Declan Rice were returning from illness and faded as the match progressed, whilst several other squad members arrived at the tournament carrying knocks. The FA, led by chief executive Mark Bullingham, must now determine whether Tuchel’s approach represents a temporary setback or a fundamental failure of strategy.

Tuchel had previously told his players, “If we lose, we lose in our way,” following half-time in the opening match against Croatia. However, in Atlanta, his decision to invite pressure contradicted that aggressive ethos, leaving England to defend desperately with six defenders on the pitch and fresh attackers unused on the bench.

The contest was a cagey, physical affair for the opening hour. The first genuine chance did not arrive until the 33rd minute, when John Stones headed wide from a Declan Rice free-kick. England gradually imposed themselves after the interval, and their breakthrough came in the 55th minute. Harry Kane’s searching pass found Morgan Rogers in space, and his excellent cross allowed Gordon to finish calmly past Emiliano Martínez.

England’s lead looked secure until the final quarter, when Tuchel switched to a back five in an attempt to protect the advantage. The tactical shift invited pressure, and Argentina dominated the closing stages. Alexis Mac Allister struck the woodwork twice, signaling the danger, before Fernández unleashed a stunning drive from a short corner in the 86th minute to equalise.

With extra time looming, Lionel Messi produced a moment of magic on the right flank, jinking past defenders to deliver a deep cross that substitute Martínez headed home unmarked. England barely threatened Martínez’s goal throughout the contest, and their defensive resilience crumbled when it mattered most.

Player ratings

England: Jordan Pickford (7) produced a sensational late save to deny Nicolás González but could not prevent the defeat. Djed Spence (8) was outstanding at left-back, making a crucial tackle on Giuliani Simeone and dominating his flank. Anthony Gordon (8) scored the goal that briefly put England in dreamland. Morgan Rogers (7) justified his selection with the assist, while Harry Kane (5) will regret his limited impact. Declan Rice (6) and Jude Bellingham (6) could not wrest control as Argentina pressed.

Argentina: Lionel Messi (9) was instrumental, producing imperious touches and mazy runs that created the winner. Enzo Fernández (8) inches away from scoring in the first half before his stunning equaliser. Lautaro Martínez (8) proved the hero with the decisive header, while Alexis Mac Allister (8) was unfortunate not to score himself. Cristian Romero (8) marshalled the defence effectively, and Julián Álvarez (8) caused constant problems down the left.

What happens next

Argentina will face Spain in Sunday’s final, giving Messi the opportunity to conclude his international career on the sport’s biggest stage. For England, the defeat marks another semi-final exit and the beginning of a familiar inquest into what might have been.

The 23-year-old midfielder outpaced captain Harry Kane by several hundred metres while completing 87 passes at a 94 per cent success rate. His stamina proved vital after Declan Rice was withdrawn at half-time due to injury and illness, prompting Tuchel to tinker with his formation and deploy Anderson in at least four different roles.

Anderson was instrumental in England’s equaliser, seizing possession after the ball struck an overhead television cable during a Norway goal-kick before surging down the left flank to combine with Anthony Gordon and set up Jude Bellingham.

Following the exhausting contest, Anderson admitted the physical toll to BBC Radio 5 Live: “It was so tough. So tough. I was cramping up a few times [in extra time]. But the fighting spirit that the lads have is amazing to be part of.”

Morgan Rogers eventually filled the void left by Rice’s departure, with the Aston Villa midfielder impressing during his cameo. However, it was Anderson who provided the steadying influence throughout, having started alongside Rice before adapting to various positions including brief experiments with Reece James and Bellingham as midfield partners.

Anderson’s performance continues his rapid rise since promotion from the under-21s last summer, where he anchored the midfield as Lee Carsley’s side secured consecutive European Championship titles. A graduate of Wallsend Boys Club—the famous North East academy that has produced eight senior England internationals including Alan Shearer and Michael Carrick—Anderson previously operated as a number ten in Newcastle’s youth teams.

Anthony Barry, Tuchel’s assistant, has previously described the midfielder as “a gift that fell from the sky”. That versatility proved essential as England adapted to losing Rice, with Anderson’s technical ability—honed during his days as an attacking midfielder—providing crucial stability throughout the demanding fixture.

The tension surfaced after England’s quarter-final victory over Norway, when Tuchel delivered a scathing assessment of his side’s performance. Speaking to ITV, the manager described the display as “sloppy” and highlighted “technical mistakes” despite his team booking their place in the last four. The German, who is targeting a second star on the England shirt, appeared to deploy shock therapy to maintain standards after a fortunate win against opponents who had been superior for much of normal time.

Bellingham, who has scored in consecutive knockout matches, responded forcefully to the criticism. His reaction reportedly included a pointed reference to Tuchel’s playing career, representing a direct challenge to the manager’s authority. The exchange carries extra weight given the pair’s difficult history; Tuchel dropped the 23-year-old from the squad last autumn amid reports of concerns over team dynamics and behaviour the manager previously described as “repulsive”.

The midfielder fought his way back into the starting eleven and has become England’s driving force at the tournament, powering the team through difficult periods when they struggled to find rhythm. However, his willingness to engage in what the media has labelled another episode of “Thomas versus Jude” suggests lingering resentment over that earlier exclusion.

High stakes in Atlanta

England now face Argentina in Atlanta on Wednesday with the focus shifted from tactical preparation to dressing room harmony. The winner will advance to the World Cup final, presenting England with the chance to reach the showpiece match on foreign soil for the first time in their history.

Tuchel’s candour represents a departure from the more diplomatic style of his predecessor Gareth Southgate. His confrontational methods mirror those of elite managers such as José Mourinho, Pep Guardiola and Sir Alex Ferguson, who historically used public criticism to drive standards. Ferguson was known to criticise his Aberdeen side even after cup final victories, while Guardiola has routinely challenged journalists who offer excessive praise to his Manchester City teams.

Cooling tensions before kick-off

Yet the risk lies in alienating a player who has proven decisive in high-pressure moments. Bellingham’s physical and mental exhaustion after the Norway match may have contributed to his unfiltered response, given the brutal humidity in Miami.

Both parties must now step back from the brink. Tuchel needs Bellingham at his best against Argentina, while the player requires the manager’s trust to perform. Resolving this tension before Wednesday’s kick-off has become as crucial as any tactical preparation.