Thomas Tuchel has taken England on a rollercoaster World Cup journey, from the highs of the semi-final and the glorious night in Mexico City to the heroics of the win over Norway, but the crushing defeat to Argentina has left him at his lowest point as England manager. Now, after so much hope, Tuchel faces his next task: Euro 2028. Here is his to-do list to fix England's problems.
1. Repair the trust with fans
This is the biggest priority. Tuchel retains the complete faith of the FA; any suggestion otherwise is false. The FA views reaching the semi-final as a success—England's best World Cup performance on foreign soil—so his position is not under threat. However, his standing with the fans is. Many supporters in the United States blame Tuchel for the defeat, citing poor substitutions, wrong tactics, and England's surrender in the final stages. The relationship between Tuchel and the fans requires significant repair. He must win them back with results quickly.
2. Repair the trust with the players
Tuchel's post-match comments about Argentina were open, brutal, and perhaps too honest. He publicly stated that England lacked the DNA to keep the ball, urged the team to be less passive and more active, and demanded more from the wing-backs. While journalists appreciate his candour, some players do not. Several England players believe Tuchel's defensive changes were to blame and that his comments shift responsibility. The team previously spoke of togetherness and brotherhood; the semi-final fallout now tests that unity.
3. Key changes
This World Cup may be Jordan Pickford's last as number one, with James Trafford pushing for the role. Harry Kane cannot carry on forever. If Tuchel has lost faith in Marcus Rashford, he must be ruthless. If he questions the team's DNA, he should select players who want to keep the ball, such as Kobbie Mainoo and Alex Scott. The home Euros are approaching, and England need changes.
4. Never pick unfit players
Tuchel made mistakes by selecting unfit players. Tino Livramento went home before the tournament began; Reece James was a poor choice as he spent much of the season injured and never played at his best. The lesson is clear: pick fit and sharp players. This must be a post-it note on Tuchel's desk ahead of the Euros.
5. Bring in the new boys—they give us a lift
England has a bright new breed of players, exactly what the squad needs ahead of Euro 2028. Talents like Rio Ngumoha, Max Dowman, and Alex Scott would provide a lift in the Nations League and Euros. Young players bring freshness, energy, and enthusiasm that the crowd buys into.
