Tuchel set to stay as England manager despite World Cup semi-final exit to Argentina

Thomas Tuchel will continue as England manager following their World Cup semi-final elimination at the hands of Argentina, with the Football Association standing firmly behind the 52-year-old despite a painful exit and widespread tactical criticism.

England had taken the lead against the defending world champions before Tuchel’s decision to switch to a back five in the final 18 minutes drew fierce backlash. Critics argue the change invited pressure and allowed Argentina to dominate the closing stages, ultimately ending England’s tournament run.

The scrutiny has been sharp. Former Spain goalkeeper Iker Casillas branded the approach “cowardly,” while ex-Premier League striker Chris Sutton called it a “coaching catastrophe.” Neither assessment has moved the FA, whose chief executive Mark Bullingham continues to back the German coach.

Tuchel himself has shown no inclination to walk away. In February he signed a two-year contract extension that ties him to the role through Euro 2028, a home European Championship he has said he is looking forward to leading England into. Asked about his defensive substitutions after the Argentina defeat, Tuchel was unapologetic: “You can discuss this with a million coaches [but] I have to make a decision on the pitch. I analysed the match and I did it a certain way so that’s my responsibility. In the moment, no regrets.”

Before any of those longer-term questions are settled, Tuchel’s immediate task is the third-place play-off against France on Saturday. A victory would represent England’s best World Cup finish since 1966, when they lifted the trophy on home soil — a milestone that gives the bronze medal match more significance than such games typically carry.