Ivan Toney has disclosed that he has held productive "clear-the-air" discussions with England manager Thomas Tuchel, addressing previous critiques of his training and commitment. These conversations have helped mend their relationship, leading to Toney's inclusion in the World Cup squad after being overlooked for friendlies in June 2025.
Tuchel had expressed dissatisfaction with Toney's "level of training and commitment" during the 2025 friendlies. This led to the striker not being selected again until a surprise call-up for the current World Cup. Toney, who has since scored 72 goals in two seasons, has embraced his role as an impact player off the bench, aiming to contribute effectively when given minutes, such as in the upcoming match against Panama in New York.
"Maybe miscommunication (with Tuchel) played a part and that’s why we cleared the air. We’re on the same path now and things are sorted," Toney stated. He believes Tuchel is now beginning to see his true character, partly due to positive feedback from individuals outside of football.
Tuchel has communicated clearly with each player about their specific roles within the squad for this tournament. Toney acknowledged that this transparency is beneficial, preventing frustration that can arise from uncertainty about one's standing. He likened his current situation to his experience at Peterborough United, where he waited nine games for an opportunity and eventually capitalized on it by scoring multiple goals.
"You just have to be ready for your chance and take it," Toney said. "If it comes I’ll try and do what I do best which is score goals and help the team."
While Toney is focused on contributing goals, he also shared a lighthearted anecdote about his son's priorities. His son, Ivan Jnr, has shown more interest in meeting other England stars like Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice than in seeing his father play, even expressing confusion about why he traveled to see Toney not play.
