The English Football Association has reiterated its backing for head coach Thomas Tuchel after England’s 2-1 loss to Argentina in the FIFA World Cup semi-final on Wednesday.
The defeat denied England a spot in their first men’s World Cup final since 1966, even after they took an early lead, but Argentina netted twice late to secure a final against Spain.
Despite the backlash concerning Tuchel’s late-game substitutions, the FA is confidently supporting the German, who is anticipated to stay in leadership until UEFA Euro 2028.
Tuchel agreed to a two-year contract extension in February after becoming England manager in January 2025 with an initial 18-month goal to guide the Three Lions to World Cup success.
England, together with Wales, Scotland, and the Republic of Ireland, will jointly host Euro 2028.
In an interview with BBC Sport on Wednesday night, FA Chief Executive Mark Bullingham voiced his backing for Tuchel and the team following the difficult loss.
He said, “It is heartbreaking 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.
“I would like to thank them all and also give my heartfelt thanks to our wonderful fans here in the USA and at home.”
England will now battle France in Saturday’s third-place play-off, with victory ensuring their best men’s World Cup finish since lifting the trophy in 1966.
Speaking after the semi-final loss in Atlanta, Tuchel insisted he remains committed to leading England into the home European Championship.
“We keep on going with the contract until the home Euros,” he said.
“I’m looking forward to that even though right now it’s difficult to look that far ahead.
“Of course, it’s a semi-final; a lot of big football nations are eliminated before the semi-final, so it is an achievement.
“No one wants to hear that at the moment; me neither because we demand the most of ourselves. That’s just the nature of being competitive.”
Although falling short of reaching the final was disappointing, England’s journey to the semifinals is anticipated to be viewed positively by the FA under Tuchel, who is now focused on preparations for Euro 2028 at home.
