That proved to be the peak of England’s World Cup campaign, as everything went downhill from that point on. The German boss’ soul-destroying tactics were reminiscent of past England managers, who, just like Tuchel in Atlanta, succumbed to the intangible insecurities that exist within the English psyche.
The FA rushed to Tuchel’s defence following the lame exit, insisting he is the man to take them forward into the 2028 Euros, having extended his contract before the tournament got underway. And it was shortly after signing the extension that Tuchel dubbed the England role his “dream job” in football.
Speaking earlier this year, he remarked: “I am very happy and proud to extend my time with England. It is no secret to anyone that I have loved every minute so far of working with my players and coaches, and I cannot wait to lead them to the World Cup. It is an incredible opportunity and we are going to do our very best to make the country proud.
“I have had so much support from [FA CEO] Mark [Bullingham], all my colleagues at The FA and from fans wherever I go that I did not hesitate when asked to continue in this dream job. EURO 2028 will be a very special tournament and as a coach there is nothing more you want than to compete with the very best on the biggest possible stage.”
The road to Euro 2028 begins here for England. Despite being a home nation, they will still have to qualify, but are almost certain to qualify, given that two spots are handed out to the best-ranked non-qualifiers from England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland.
Before that though, the Nations League returns for England and Tuchel in the autumn. England have been drawn into a four-team group with Spain, Czechia and Croatia, with results from that competition directly impacting the Euros qualification process as well.
Mistakes are there to be learned from, and if Tuchel is the man to guide England forward, he’ll be hoping to avenge Wednesday’s defeat to Argentina at the Euros in two years’ time.