Thomas Tuchel, now managing the German national team, finds himself under criticism for his tactical decisions after his side's World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina, a situation that brings his prior remarks about England's 'fear' back into sharp focus. Tuchel had previously stated that England, under Gareth Southgate, played with "more afraid to drop out of the tournament than having the excitement and hunger to win it," a comment made during their Euro 2024 campaign.
However, the narrative has shifted, with Tuchel's own team now facing accusations of playing too passively after taking a 1-0 lead against Argentina. England had gone ahead through Anthony Gordon, but a shift to a more defensive setup, including a transition to a back five, invited pressure from the South American side. Argentina equalized with a long-range effort from Enzo Fernandez and secured their victory in stoppage time with a Lautaro Martinez header.
Wayne Rooney, a prominent critic, reportedly lambasted Tuchel's approach, suggesting the manager was "asking for trouble" and "surrendering" their advantage. The tactical change, bringing on Ezri Konsa in the 72nd minute to bolster the defense, was intended to replicate a successful strategy from the last-16 win against Mexico. However, it resulted in England ceding possession and territory.
Data showed England holding only 12% possession from the moment they scored their opener until Argentina's winning goal. Tuchel acknowledged his team's passive play after taking the lead, stating, "We got too passive after we scored and conceded a lot of chances." He further explained the defensive substitutions were an attempt to "help the players" by closing gaps that had opened up. "The responsibility is on the coach," Tuchel admitted, "and if it doesn't go well, it is easy to say it was wrong."
Tuchel, 52, is currently under contract with the German FA through to the 2028 Euros, having signed an extension following a successful World Cup qualification campaign. FA chief executive Mark Bullingham has expressed confidence in Tuchel remaining in his role until at least that tournament, despite the recent semi-final disappointment.