England's World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina has triggered a bitter backlash, with senior players privately criticising Thomas Tuchel's defensive tactics and a Sun poll revealing 58.32% of readers want the German sacked.
Leading 1-0 through Anthony Gordon's 55th-minute opener, Tuchel switched to a back five to protect the lead. Argentina scored two late goals to win 2-1, sparking accusations of cowardice. BBC Sport understands at least three senior players have complained privately about the approach during the closing stages. The Independent reports Argentina's players were privately stunned by England's negative tactics.
“England players blame Tuchel's defensive tactics after 2-1 World Cup semi-final defeat; Sun poll shows 58% want manager sacked.”
“It's maybe not in our DNA…to control the game and ball,” Tuchel said, defending his changes. Gary Lineker described the tactics as “unfathomable”, while Wayne Rooney said the defeat “started from the manager and the decisions he made”.
Despite the criticism, Tuchel insists he is “100%” committed to leading England at Euro 2028. “There is still enough to improve and I am more than happy to do that,” he said. The FA is launching a full probe into the tournament but retains full support for the manager.
The fallout has extended beyond football. Argentina players celebrated by holding up a banner reading “Las Malvinas son Argentinas” (the Falklands are Argentinian), prompting fury from Falklands veterans Simon Weston and Jarvis Burt. Fifa’s disciplinary committee is assessing the incident.
Even King Charles was affected: the Evening Standard reported he “drowned his sorrows” with a pint and brewery tour the day after the defeat.
With the FA review underway and public opinion split, Tuchel’s position remains under intense scrutiny ahead of a home European Championship in two years.
