'Rubbish!' - Michael Owen tears into Thomas Tuchel's 'pub team' approach vs Argentina after England crash out of 2026 World Cup
Former England striker Michael Owen has criticized manager Thomas Tuchel's defensive tactics following England's 2-1 World Cup semi-final loss to Argentina. Owen described the team's strategy as 'rubbish' and lacking bravery, arguing that the decision to retreat after taking an early lead cost them the match.
Why it matters
The critique highlights the intense public and expert scrutiny surrounding national team management during high-stakes international tournaments.
England legend Michael Owen has launched a blistering attack on Thomas Tuchel, comparing his ultra-defensive tactics to those of a local pub team. Following the Three Lions' heartbreaking 2-1 World Cup semi-final exit to Argentina, the former striker labelled the defensive approach "rubbish" and the absolute opposite of brave.
In a brutal assessment of England's performance in Atlanta, Owen did not hold back when discussing Tuchel’s tactical decisions. Despite Anthony Gordon giving England an early lead, the team retreated into a heavily defensive shell, a move Owen believes was a fundamental error in judgement from the dugout.
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