Michael Owen has called for a ban on foreign coaches taking charge of international football teams, following England's heartbreaking 2-1 World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina on Wednesday evening. The former England striker responded to a post highlighting that all World Cup-winning managers have been homegrown, stating: "There should be no such thing as foreign coaches in international football."
Tuchel Under Fire for Tactical Decisions
Thomas Tuchel, the German head coach of England, has faced intense scrutiny for his tactical choices during the match. After Anthony Gordon gave England the lead early in the second half, Tuchel adopted a defensive approach, sitting deep and inviting pressure while substituting attacking players for defensive ones. This strategy backfired as Enzo Fernandez equalized for Argentina with five minutes remaining, and Lautaro Martinez scored the winner in stoppage time, securing Argentina's place in the final against Spain.
England's elimination means no nation has ever won the World Cup under a foreign coach. Luis de la Fuente and Lionel Scaloni will lead Spain and Argentina respectively in the final, both being homegrown managers.
Former Players Question Tuchel's Ability
Owen's former teammate Robbie Fowler also cast doubt on Tuchel's capabilities, saying: "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." Chris Sutton echoed these concerns, stating: "It's all on the coach where I'm concerned. He made the changes. He was negative, so the question which I'm going to ask is how can you trust Thomas Tuchel to take this team forward?"
Tuchel and FA Remain Committed
Despite the criticism, Tuchel, whose contract runs until after Euro 2028, continues to have the backing of the Football Association and chief executive Mark Bullingham. Tuchel has no plans to resign, saying: "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."
Bullingham released a statement following England's elimination: "It is heart-breaking 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. 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."
