Is it OK to say Tuchel’s two England wins have been a bit dull? – Football Weekly podcast
Mar 25, 2025
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Nicky Bandini is a renowned football journalist focusing on Serie A, while Lucy Ward and Paul Watson both contribute their insights on the beautiful game. They delve into Tuchel's tactical approach with England, discussing player dynamics and the impact on younger talent. The team reflects on World Cup qualifiers, highlighting New Zealand's emotional journey. They also explore Sudan's resilient football amidst adversity and share amusing anecdotes from matches with odd incidents, like an extraordinary 29 minutes of injury time!
Thomas Tuchel has started his tenure with England successfully, winning both matches but raising concerns about the attacking pace and creativity.
The strategic challenges in qualifying matches were evident, as England struggled to penetrate well-organized defenses, necessitating more dynamic wing players.
Tuchel's direct communication style with the media presents both opportunities for honesty and risks for public perception if results decline.
Deep dives
Early Success Under Tuchel
The initial matches under Thomas Tuchel's management resulted in two wins, including a solid 3-0 victory over Latvia. Key performances came from players like Morgan Rodgers, who impressed with his play, and Rhys James, who scored a stunning free kick. However, concerns arose as England nearly conceded early due to a mistake from goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. Despite minor setbacks, Tuchel's start was labeled satisfactory, reflecting potential for future matches.
Strategic Challenges in Qualifying
The discussion highlighted the strategic difficulties in qualifying matches against teams like Latvia, with players struggling to break down a well-organized defense. The absence of overlapping fullbacks contributed to a slower pace, complicating attacking prospects. Lucy pointed out the importance of having more dynamic wing players to create space and opportunities. Ultimately, although England secured victories, there were significant questions about their ability to perform against stronger teams in high-stakes games.
Media Dynamics and Managerial Approach
Tuchel's direct and unfiltered communication style with the media is seen as a double-edged sword. Unlike previous managers, he does not cater to media narratives, which may affect his relationship with journalists. This candor allows him to express genuine feedback about player performances but also risks negative press coverage if results falter. The discussion emphasized the prevailing sentiment that media coverage influences public perception, particularly if Tuchel's future results deviate from expectations.
Bellingham and Team Dynamics
Jude Bellingham's performance raised questions about his adaptability in less dynamic games, suggesting he struggles in qualifiers that demand patience. His over-eagerness to control the game can lead to stagnation, particularly when the team finds it challenging to break through organized defenses. The inclusion of Phil Foden in a more central role highlighted a more fluid attacking approach that invigorated the squad's performance. Overall, Bellingham's growth is crucial for navigating various match conditions, but he may need to refine his approach in qualifiers.
Emerging Players and Future Prospects
Morgan Rodgers' promising display in the game against Latvia exemplified the potential of younger players stepping up for England. His ability to take on defenders and influence build-up play was a bright spot in an otherwise predictable match. Discussions about the necessity of setting higher performance standards were prevalent, especially as the younger generation enters the national team. Additionally, attention was drawn to the importance of nurturing players' competitive spirit without overshadowing their individual roles within the squad.
Max Rushden is joined by Nicky Bandini, Lucy Ward and Paul Watson as Thomas Tuchel maintains his 100% start with England. Help support our independent journalism at theguardian.com/footballweeklypod
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