Former Liverpool and England striker Michael Owen has sparked controversy by calling for a ban on foreign coaches in international football following England's World Cup exit to Argentina. The Three Lions were eliminated by the reigning world champions in the semi-finals, with manager Thomas Tuchel facing mounting criticism over his tactical approach.
Owen's stance on foreign coaches
Reacting to a social media post highlighting that every World Cup-winning manager has been a native of their country, Owen wrote: "There should be no such thing as foreign coaches in international football." His comment came after England's 2-1 defeat, where Anthony Gordon gave them an early lead before Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez turned the game around.
England's exit means that no nation has ever won the World Cup with a foreign manager. Sunday's final between Spain and Argentina will be contested by two native coaches: Luis de la Fuente and Lionel Scaloni.
Tuchel under fire
Tuchel, who took charge of England in 2025, has faced intense scrutiny for his cautious tactics against Argentina. After taking the lead, England sat back and invited pressure, a strategy that ultimately backfired. Robbie Fowler, Owen's former Liverpool teammate, questioned Tuchel's suitability, stating: "A great coach/manager isn't someone who relies on the bravery of defenders throwing themselves in front of shots/crosses or the luck of hanging on with X amount of defenders on the pitch."
Despite the criticism, Tuchel retains the backing of the Football Association (FA) and chief executive Mark Bullingham. Tuchel, who is contracted until after Euro 2028, has no intention of resigning. When asked about his future, he said: "First of all, the World Cup is not over. There is still a match to play, that we are not looking forward to so much but there is still a match to play. Of course then we keep on going. I have a contract until the home Euros and I'm looking forward to that even like now it is difficult to look that far ahead."
FA support
Bullingham released a statement following England's elimination, expressing disappointment but backing the team and manager. "It is heartbreaking to be so close. The players and Thomas gave it everything today and the squad, coaches and staff could not have worked harder during the tournament," he said. "I would like to thank them all – and also give my heartfelt thanks to our wonderful fans here in the USA and at home. We felt your support every step of the way and we are all so disappointed not to go further."
