England manager Thomas Tuchel is considering a radical strategy to combat the extreme heat expected at next summer's World Cup, which could see substitutes watching matches from air-conditioned rooms inside stadiums rather than from the bench.
A Tactical Response to Scorching Conditions
Speaking in Washington DC ahead of Friday's World Cup draw, Tuchel acknowledged the significant challenge posed by forecast temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius at some venues across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The German coach stated he is open to keeping reserve players in a cooler environment until they are needed on the pitch.
'If it helps us later in the game when they come on, we will consider it as a possibility,' Tuchel explained. He admitted the unconventional move is not ideal, as he prefers players to be on the bench to feel the match's energy and transmit it onto the field. However, he is pragmatic about the potential performance benefits, having observed teams employ similar tactics at the Club World Cup.
'I hope we can avoid it,' Tuchel added. 'It's always better if they can be with us.'
Bellingham Reaction Addressed Amid World Cup Focus
Meanwhile, Tuchel confirmed he had reviewed the reaction of star midfielder Jude Bellingham after being substituted during last month's victory in Albania. The incident drew attention, but the manager told ITV that the World Cup draw in Washington was not the appropriate moment for a detailed discussion.
'It's quite clear what happened, and I didn't see it during the game,' said Tuchel. 'I think people will understand that I am in Washington for the World Cup draw now, so the topic is not for now.'
Tuchel's immediate focus remains on Friday's draw, where he will learn England's group-stage opponents for the tournament.
Dreaming of World Cup Glory
Beyond logistical plans, Tuchel's ambitions for the squad are crystal clear. He boldly stated his dream is to return from the United States next summer as world champions.
'If the players bring that (desire), then I think anything is possible,' Tuchel declared. 'We will be brave enough to dream about it, we will be brave enough to try it.'
He emphasised that while winning cannot be guaranteed, the nation wants to see a unified team with a strong spirit that fights for each other. 'We are getting closer and closer. I think we are getting stronger and stronger, and that is the most important thing,' he said.
Tuchel concluded by outlining his core philosophy for the campaign: 'We will emphasise the group and the team spirit, and I hope we get the momentum and energy so that nobody else wants to play against us.'
