The Football Association has confirmed it will keep Thomas Tuchel as England head coach following the World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina, despite criticism of his tactical decisions. England lost 2-1 after a second-half collapse, with goals from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez overturning Anthony Gordon's opener.
FA backs Tuchel after semi-final loss
In a statement after the match, FA chief executive Mark Bullingham said: 'It is heart-breaking to be so close. The players and Thomas gave it everything today and the squad, coaches and staff could not have worked harder during the tournament.' He added that the FA is 'disappointed not to go further' but expressed support for the manager.
Tuchel, who signed a contract extension in February that keeps him in charge through Euro 2028, faced scrutiny for making three defensive substitutions after England took the lead. Critics, including former captain Wayne Rooney, argued that the changes allowed Argentina to increase pressure on Jordan Pickford's goal. Rooney claimed Tuchel's 'negative decisions' had 'cost England the game'.
Tuchel defends substitutions
Tuchel defended his choices after the match, stating that the team had to manage the game. He said: 'First of all, the World Cup is not over. There is still a match to play [against France] that we are not looking forward so much to, but there is still a match to play. Then we keep on going. I have a contract until the home Euros and I'm looking forward to that even though right now, it's difficult to look that far ahead.'
Despite the defeat, the FA is committed to Tuchel leading the Three Lions into the next major tournament, Euro 2028, which will be co-hosted by England, Scotland, Wales, and the Republic of Ireland. England will face France in the third-place play-off on Saturday at 10pm BST.
