Tuchel retains FA backing for Euro 2028 campaign after World Cup semi-final exit
Thomas Tuchel has pledged his full commitment to England’s Euro 2028 campaign following a World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina, securing continued institutional backing from the Football Association despite tactical criticism.
Thomas Tuchel has reaffirmed his total commitment to managing England through Euro 2028 following the team’s 2-1 World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina in Atlanta. The manager insisted he remains fully invested in unlocking the squad’s potential despite the late collapse.
The Football Association has maintained its support for the German coach, who signed a contract extension in February. FA chief executive Mark Bullingham praised the squad’s effort, noting that the team and staff "could not have worked harder during the tournament."
Tuchel faced scrutiny for shifting to a back five in the 72nd minute, substituting Anthony Gordon for Ezri Konsa while leading 1-0. However, the manager argued the decisive factor was player passivity rather than tactical formation.
England managed only 12 per cent of possession between Gordon’s 55th-minute opener and Lautaro Martínez’s stoppage-time winner. Tuchel suggested that controlling the game through ball possession is simply not in the English DNA, unlike their Spanish, Argentinian, or Brazilian counterparts.
Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni aggressively altered his lineup to force the outcome. He introduced winger Nico González in the 64th minute and striker Lautaro Martínez in the 81st minute, overwhelming England’s retreating defensive structure.
Operational and tournament outlook
Beyond the pitch, the Football Association is weighing the severe logistical toll of global tournaments. The Atlanta match marked the squad’s 13th flight since the competition began, compounding the physical fatigue of a demanding Premier League season.
Governing body officials view the semi-final run as a success given a difficult draw that included Croatia and Ghana, alongside potential knockout clashes against Mexico, Brazil, and Spain or France. The FA hopes that co-hosting Euro 2028 will provide a more straightforward logistical environment for the squad.
Tuchel acknowledged the physical and structural struggles, citing the heat, altitude, and a previous red card as compounding factors. He remains focused on bridging the gap between training performance and match execution before the next major tournament on home soil.
