England boss Tuchel hammered by media after World Cup exit

The British media has unleashed a torrent of criticism on England manager Thomas Tuchel after the team's World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina. Tabloids like The Sun ran headlines such as 'Lost his Tuch?' and 'Thomas tanked it,' reflecting widespread frustration among fans.

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Lost his Tuch?

Tuchel's decision to bring on defenders Dan Burn and Ezri Konsa to bolster a five-man defense after England took a 1-0 lead was particularly lambasted. Critics argued this move stifled the team's attacking potential and led to a passive approach, ultimately costing them a chance to reach their first World Cup final since 1966. The Daily Mail stated that Tuchel's changes were too negative, echoing criticisms previously leveled at his predecessor, Gareth Southgate.

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Thomas tanked it

Columnist Martin Samuel of The Times echoed this sentiment, suggesting that despite being hired to fix tactical issues, Tuchel reverted to conservative play when it mattered most. He noted a recurring pattern of England letting leads slip in crucial matches, comparing it to past failures in the 2018 World Cup and Euro 2020 final.

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Thomas Tuchel’s changes cost England against Argentina, they were out of ideas and doomed to lose from that moment. It was a return to the bad habits Gareth Southgate was criticised for

Tuchel's own past comments about England's fear of expressing themselves were also turned against him. However, despite the harsh assessments, the 52-year-old former Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain coach is reportedly likely to keep his job. His contract runs until Euro 2028, and The Mirror reported he is set to stay, even as some, like former Spain goalkeeper Iker Casillas, described the team's approach as 'cowardly.'

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The disease remains and is as contagious as ever. Different group, fancy new boss, same dispiriting outcome.