Former U.S. President Donald Trump has weighed in on England's recent World Cup elimination, directing criticism at coach Thomas Tuchel for what he described as "unusual" tactics.
Speaking at a FIFA reception at Trump Tower, Trump questioned the decision to deploy England captain Harry Kane in a defensive role during the team's semi-final loss to Argentina. "You have a great player in England, who I played golf with - Harry, who's been fantastic," Trump stated. "I think they perhaps made a mistake when they made him a defensive player. What do I know about soccer? They took the lead, and they took their best player and put him in defence."
FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who was present, appeared to react with amusement to Trump's assessment.
Trump elaborated on his view, saying, "We have got to be a little offensive, right? But what do I know about coaching? It was unusual, but Harry is a great guy, actually."
This is not the first time Trump has commented on the World Cup. Previously, he intervened to have a red card suspension for Folarin Balogun overturned through a conversation with Infantino. He had also spoken positively about England's captain.
Kane had confirmed playing a round of golf with Trump approximately 18 months prior in Florida, describing the experience as "pretty surreal" and expressing admiration for Trump's golf game.
Trump had previously praised Kane on social media after the forward's performance in England's round of 16 victory over Mexico, calling him a "GREAT player." However, Trump expressed a different view regarding England's strategy in the later stages of the Argentina match after taking the lead.
England's approach in the closing minutes of the match against Argentina, particularly after scoring, drew criticism. Manager Thomas Tuchel reportedly attributed the outcome to England's "DNA," a comment that followed backlash regarding his tactical choices and substitutions. Kane, who often drops deeper when England has possession, found himself in a defensive position during the final stages, a move that drew Trump's critique.