World Cup 2026: England coach Thomas Tuchel delivers message to players
England football manager Thomas Tuchel has urged his squad to finish their World Cup campaign on a high note following a semi-final loss to Argentina. The team is preparing for a third-place play-off against France after facing criticism over their defensive tactics in the previous match.
Why it matters
The performance and tactical decisions of the national team manager are under intense scrutiny as England seeks its best World Cup finish since 1966.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Thomas Tuchel was appointed England manager in January 2025 on an initial 18-month deal
Senior football correspondent in Miami Published 17 July 2026 Manager Thomas Tuchel has called on England to end the World Cup strongly in an emotional address to the squad after their agonising defeat by Argentina.
The players returned to their base in Kansas City following the semi-final loss on Wednesday to undertake two final training sessions before Saturday's bronze-medal match against France.
And sources have told BBC Sport that Tuchel, in a speech to his squad, has collectively encouraged his players to put their disappointment behind them and finish the tournament on a high.
If England beat France in Miami to claim third place, it would be their best men's World Cup finish since winning the tournament in 1966.
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