Thomas Tuchel has signed a surprise contract extension with England that will keep him in charge until after Euro 2028. The German, who replaced Gareth Southgate in January 2025, had been on an 18-month deal but has now committed to a longer term, ending speculation he might return to club football. Tuchel believes England can win the World Cup this summer, stating, 'We believe that we can play a strong role and we will go for it.'
The new contract provides clarity ahead of the World Cup in June and removes a potential distraction. Tuchel said the process was 'very straightforward' and that he was always committed to extending. His backroom staff—Anthony Barry, Henrique Hilário, Nico Mayer and James Melbourne—have also signed new deals until 2028. The FA chief executive, Mark Bullingham, confirmed performance-related conditions but expressed confidence that Tuchel will be coaching in 2028.
Tuchel's England side won all eight World Cup qualifiers without conceding a goal. He acknowledged that adapting to international management took time but felt a strong connection during the autumn internationals. One key decision he faces involves Jude Bellingham, who is out with a hamstring injury and is in a 'race against time' to be fit for March friendlies against Uruguay and Japan.
The contract announcement coincided with the Nations League draw, where England were placed in Group A3 with Croatia, Spain and the Czech Republic. England will face Croatia again on 17 June in their World Cup opener. Wales were drawn in Group A4, while Scotland will face Switzerland in League B. Tuchel watched the draw in Brussels alongside Bullingham.
