The Football Association will conduct a thorough review of Thomas Tuchel's performance at the World Cup as well as England's campaign in full following a painful 2-1 semi-final defeat to Argentina. Tuchel has been heavily criticised by fans and pundits over the manner of the loss, with two quickfire Argentina goals denying England a first World Cup final appearance since 1966.
Match Details and Backlash
Anthony Gordon had given England the lead, but Lionel Messi seized control and orchestrated a rousing comeback. As Argentina prepare for a second successive World Cup final, England and Tuchel have been left to lick their wounds ahead of Saturday's third-place play-off against France.
While reports indicate the FA are firmly behind Tuchel despite the backlash, The Times report that they will conduct a review of his performance as well as that of the team. John McDermott and a technical department will lead the review, with the report adding that it remains to be seen whether Tuchel will retain the same level of support once all aspects of the tournament have been assessed.
Tuchel's Record and Contract
Tuchel led England to just the fourth World Cup semi-final in their history and oversaw what many perceive to be the finest away performance in history with a victory against Mexico at The Azteca. However, performances were often scrutinised. The German signed a two-year contract extension to take him through to Euro 2028 in the months leading up to the World Cup. Mark Bullingham, the FA's chief executive, later revealed there was a performance-related clause in the agreement.
Pundit Criticism and Tuchel's Defiance
Wayne Rooney was among the pundits to point the finger of blame squarely at Tuchel, with the overwhelming feeling being that England retreated too deep, too early. When asked if he was still the man to lead England into Euro 2028, Tuchel responded defiantly: “Yes, 100 percent. There is still enough to improve, and I am more than happy to do that.”
“I’ve loved it here. I loved every day. I said after the Norway game that I see a disconnect from what I see in training on a football level and within the games I think we can impose ourselves more on the ball. I still think we can show how good football players we are. I think that is still in us, as I see it in training and in every camp. And here also at the World Cup.”
“I still feel there is an extra level that we need to conquer and need to step up to the next level to get the big prize.”
