England won't use heat as World Cup excuse, says Tuchel

England's manager Thomas Tuchel has declared that his squad will not cite the extreme heat or extensive travel as reasons for underperformance during the 2026 World Cup. Tuchel views the anticipated heat and humidity as part of the challenge to become world champions.

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We don't want to make it an excuse. Of course, it will be difficult, but we hope to navigate a long World Cup campaign. There will be a lot of travel and various challenges due to the heat and high humidity.

"We don't want to make it an excuse. Of course, it will be difficult, but we hope to navigate a long World Cup campaign. There will be a lot of travel and various challenges due to the heat and high humidity," he said at a press conference. England is currently preparing in Florida for friendly matches against New Zealand and Costa Rica before heading to their training camp in Kansas City, which is also expected to experience temperatures exceeding 30 degrees Celsius.

England's World Cup journey begins on June 17 in Dallas against Croatia, where temperatures are forecast to reach 35 degrees Celsius. Should they advance to the knockout stages, they might play in Mexico City, known for its high altitude, or potentially in Miami for the quarterfinals. Tuchel stressed the importance of the team remaining calm and adaptable to any situation throughout the tournament. "That's what it takes to keep advancing in a major tournament," he stated.

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That's what it takes to keep advancing in a major tournament.

Despite the heat, Tuchel affirmed he would not alter his tactical approach, which emphasizes high pressure against opponents. "There is value in trying to win the ball back in the opponent's half even if it requires high intensity and has its own risks," he explained. He also expressed satisfaction with the number of players who have won trophies this season, boosting the team's confidence. "We have many players who have been champions. That experience naturally helps increase confidence. They know how to handle pressure and have proven their ability to perform in big matches," Tuchel added.

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There is value in trying to win the ball back in the opponent's half even if it requires high intensity and has its own risks.

England defender Ezri Konsa acknowledged that many players are not accustomed to such extreme heat but stressed the necessity of adapting quickly. England, the runner-up in the last two European Championships, is in Group L with Ghana, Panama, and Croatia.

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We have many players who have been champions. That experience naturally helps increase confidence. They know how to handle pressure and have proven their ability to perform in big matches.