Tuchel's 'Grade E' referee Turpin appointed to take charge of England vs Croatia

Clément Turpin, the French referee Thomas Tuchel publicly labelled “Grade E” following a tempestuous Champions League night in 2023, has been appointed to officiate England’s World Cup 2026 qualifier against Croatia.

Tuchel’s fury towards Turpin dates back to Bayern Munich’s Champions League quarter-final second leg against Manchester City at the Allianz Arena. Turpin issued five yellow cards in the first half alone and sent off Dayot Upamecano for a challenge on Erling Haaland — though VAR overturned the red card after ruling Haaland offside. Tuchel, now England manager, was scathing in his post-match assessment: “Two things couldn’t keep up with the level — the pitch wasn’t in good condition and also the referee, unfortunately, was Grade E. I’d give him a one out of 10. He was absolutely terrible. It’s unbelievable at this level. He was whistling for everything and anything.”

Despite that flashpoint, Turpin is regarded as one of Europe’s most experienced officials. His major assignments include the 2021 Europa League final and the 2022 Champions League final, and he has consistently been trusted with high-stakes fixtures across the continent.

Turpin also has prior history with England’s Jude Bellingham. The official intervened firmly when the Real Madrid midfielder attempted to unsettle Harry Kane around the penalty spot during a Champions League match — a moment that illustrated Turpin’s willingness to manage influential players directly.

The appointment adds an intriguing subplot to England’s qualifier against Croatia, given Tuchel’s well-documented grievances with the man in the middle. Turpin also refereed England’s goalless draw with Slovenia at Euro 2024, meaning several members of the current squad will be familiar with his style.

Whether Tuchel’s assessment has softened in the intervening two years remains to be seen, but Turpin arrives with the backing of UEFA’s top appointments and a track record that stretches across football’s biggest occasions.