With a blue cap perched on his head, Thomas Tuchel navigated through the bustling crowds at St Pancras station on Thursday lunchtime, embarking on a swift journey to Brussels. The England manager's trip to Belgium lasted under six hours, a brief excursion that underscored the whirlwind nature of his role.
A Conspicuous Journey for a Long-Term Commitment
Despite the headwear, Tuchel remained a noticeable figure as he boarded the Eurostar, traveling for a Nations League draw that now feels distant given recent developments. The draw paired England with Spain, Croatia, and the Czech Republic—a grouping few expected to feature in Tuchel's plans until the Football Association announced a new contract extending his tenure through 2028.
Returning to London by midnight, Tuchel reflected on the rapid turnaround, reminiscent of the initial 18-month deal focused solely on the World Cup. In Brussels, he emphasized that while the extension provides clarity and eliminates distractions during England's campaign in the United States, agreeing to it merely for that reason would have been unwise.
Building Connections and Future Plans
Modern contracts often include break clauses, and FA chief executive Mark Bullingham declined to elaborate on specifics. However, Tuchel highlighted his unexpected bond with the squad, which deepened during the last international break, prompting discussions about extending their collaboration.
'Both sides wanted to complete the cycle, we wanted to commit further to a full cycle of World Cup and Euros,' Tuchel stated. 'We want to compete for all titles, but we are very aligned in the way we want it, and that is the best feeling you can have as a coach.'
Tuchel has attracted interest from other quarters, notably being linked with the Manchester United job this summer. While a return to club management appeals, he clarified, 'But not for two-and-a-half years.' When asked about potential suitors, he replied, 'Confidential. But I was very committed to the idea after November to stay.'
Navigating Challenges and Opportunities
Expressing contentment, Tuchel smirked at facing Croatia 'again' in the Nations League, noting the difficulty of cramming four fixtures into three weeks next September, which will disrupt Premier League schedules. He praised opportunities for players like Kobbie Mainoo to reintegrate after a hiatus since 2024, and mentioned Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire as potential contenders if Manchester United's form improves under Michael Carrick, citing their suitability for a back-four system.
However, concerns linger, particularly regarding Jude Bellingham's hamstring injury. Initially expected to sideline him for a month, Real Madrid now suggests a longer recovery. The FA is in contact with Bellingham, anxiously awaiting updates on his availability for March friendlies against Uruguay and Japan—a crucial preparation phase before the pre-tournament camp in Florida.
'The club is a bit more defensive on the outlook regarding the weeks of his recovery,' Tuchel explained. 'Jude is pushing, and as we know him, he is determined and super professional. He will try everything to be with us in March. Whatever we can do for him, we will help and support him. It is a little race against time. Personally, I am optimistic, but I am not sure.'
Strategic Timing and Forward Focus
With managerial vacancies anticipated at clubs like Manchester United and Tottenham, and Pep Guardiola's future at Manchester City uncertain, the FA acted swiftly after a flawless World Cup qualifying campaign. Tuchel noted that performances in recent matches aligned closely with his vision upon taking the role last year.
'I'm not sure if they (the FA) were worried,' he remarked. 'There was no reason to be worried because I was obviously totally focused through the qualification period and right after that we started the talks. I was always committed to this idea of extending the contract, the FA were always committed—there were no games, no second thoughts. The process was very straightforward.'
