Thomas Tuchel Aims to ‘Free Ourselves from History’ as New England Boss Targets 2026 World Cup Glory

Thomas Tuchel, the newly appointed head coach of England’s men’s football team, has set his sights on ending the nation’s 60-year wait for a major international trophy at the 2026 World Cup.

The 51-year-old German was confirmed as the successor to Gareth Southgate on Wednesday and will officially take over on January 1, having signed an 18-month contract.

Speaking to BBC sports editor Dan Roan, Tuchel expressed optimism about the team’s potential to finally break their title drought, saying, “Nothing is impossible in sports.

The federation is there, the women did it, the under-21s did it, so there is no reason [we can’t]. At some point, we have to free ourselves from history.”

The former Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain boss emphasized that his focus will be on the future, starting the process of building a winning mentality from January.

Tuchel’s appointment makes him only the third non-British permanent head coach of the England men’s team.

Addressing some skepticism regarding his nationality, Tuchel humorously remarked, “I am sorry I have a German passport.” However, he stressed that his selection was about finding the right person for the role, not about nationality.

Tuchel steps into the role following the resignation of Gareth Southgate, who ended his eight-year tenure after England’s defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final in July.

The German tactician was initially approached regarding the vacancy in August and decided to accept the job after two additional meetings.

Tuchel acknowledged the magnitude of his new position during a media conference at Wembley, saying, “I understood very quickly that it is a big job.

It feels big and feels like a privilege.” He added that the excitement and responsibility of leading England had reignited his passion, reminding him of his younger days when football dreams first took shape.

His transition to international football marks a shift from club management, but Tuchel is eager to work with what he describes as a “very special and exciting group of players.”

England’s squad boasts a mix of talented youngsters and experienced players who compete in top leagues worldwide, something Tuchel sees as a significant advantage.

“We have an amazing generation of young and also experienced players, who play in the best leagues in the world, so there is no reason to be afraid,” he stated.

Asked why he chose the England job over club offers, including the prospect of managing Manchester United, Tuchel explained that the England Football Association’s approach was swift and compelling.

“The idea and the way John [McDermott] and Mark [Bullingham] presented it was very fast and confidential. It was a decision for this job and not against anything else,” he noted.

As Tuchel prepares to take on the role, he has promised to instill a clear style of play, values, and principles while creating an atmosphere that pushes the team to reach its highest potential.

With the aim of qualifying for the World Cup and pursuing glory in 2026, Tuchel concluded, “Everyone can be assured we will do it with passion and emotions… We will try to make the dream come true.”