Thomas Tuchel has declared that England's footballing DNA must evolve if the nation is to triumph in major tournaments, affirming his full commitment to the cause following a heartbreaking World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina. The Three Lions squandered a lead, succumbing to a dramatic late comeback that saw Lionel Messi's side prevail.
England's collapse against Argentina
England took the lead shortly after half-time through Anthony Gordon but failed to build on their advantage. Argentina fought back, with Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez scoring late goals to secure a 2-1 victory. Tuchel faced criticism for his substitutions, replacing goalscorer Gordon and Declan Rice with Dan Burn and Ezri Konsa, while Nico O'Reilly came on for an injured Reece James.
The defeat means England have not reached a World Cup final since their 1966 triumph. Tuchel, however, pointed to a deeper issue than tactical decisions.
Tuchel blames mentality, not tactics
Speaking after the match, Tuchel told reporters that England's capitulation was rooted in mentality rather than his instructions. "It has to be changed," he said of the team's mindset. "I haven't seen the data yet but I think right after the goal, the momentum swings completely in ball possession, chances and it drops dramatically."
He insisted he did not intend for England to drop into a desperate low block after taking the lead. "We got too passive within our structure. I tried to help, not to become more passive with a back five but to be more active," he explained. "We encouraged everyone to step out, but we just struggled. We couldn't find any duels any more which was why we dropped deeper and deeper."
Ball possession a 'big problem' for England
Tuchel highlighted England's difficulty in maintaining possession as a systemic issue. "I think ball possession plays a crucial role. It's maybe not in our DNA like it is in the Spanish DNA or Argentinian or Brazilian DNA to take the ball, control the game and the ball, which is also a big problem," he said.
Despite the setback, Tuchel confirmed he intends to remain as England manager for Euro 2028. "Yes, 100 per cent. There is still enough to improve, and I am more than happy to do that," he stated. "I've loved it. I loved every day. I still think we can show how good football players we are. I still feel there is an extra level that we need to conquer to get the big prize."
