Thomas Tuchel has been chosen as the new England manager starting from 1 January 2025. The 51-year-old German has agreed to an 18-month contract, making him the third non-British permanent manager of the men’s team after Sven-Goran Eriksson and Fabio Capello. This decision came after Gareth Southgate resigned in July following England’s loss to Spain in the Euro 2024 final.
Lee Carsley, who has been the interim manager since August, will continue to lead the team for the upcoming Nations League matches against Greece and the Republic of Ireland. Thomas Tuchel, the former Chelsea boss who left Bayern Munich at the end of the previous season, expressed his pride in being chosen to lead the England team. He mentioned his personal connection to the game in England and his excitement to work with the talented group of players.
The Football Association’s chief executive, Mark Bullingham, stated that they have appointed one of the best coaches in the world in Tuchel. The main goal is to prepare the team for the World Cup in 2026. The last time England won a major trophy was during the 1966 World Cup, and they will begin their qualification journey for the 2026 tournament in the upcoming year.
The FA considered other candidates for the position, including Pep Guardiola from Manchester City, Eddie Howe from Newcastle United, and Graham Potter, the former manager of Brighton and Chelsea. However, Tuchel emerged as the top choice after several interviews with different managers. The FA board approved the decision, and Tuchel signed the contract on 8 October.
During Lee Carsley’s tenure as interim manager, England lost to Greece and defeated Finland in recent matches. The announcement of Tuchel’s appointment was delayed to avoid any distractions during the international camp. English coach Anthony Barry, who previously worked with Tuchel at Chelsea and Bayern, will be his assistant.
Tuchel has an impressive coaching record, winning the German Cup with Borussia Dortmund and two Ligue 1 titles with Paris St-Germain. He also achieved success with Chelsea by winning the Champions League, Club World Cup, and Uefa Super Cup. Despite parting ways with Bayern Munich due to their failure to secure the Bundesliga title, Tuchel is ready to lead England to new heights.
Prince of Wales expressed his support for Tuchel on social media, wishing him the best of luck in his new role. Carsley will resume his position as the manager of England Under-21s when Tuchel officially takes charge of the senior team. Exciting times lie ahead for English football, with a new manager at the helm and a talented generation of players ready to shine on the international stage.
