Thomas Tuchel will remain in charge of England after receiving the full support of the Football Association despite the team’s painful World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina, with the German coach expected to continue leading the national side through Euro 2028.
England’s hopes of reaching their first men’s World Cup final since 1966 ended on Wednesday after a dramatic 2-1 loss to Argentina. The Three Lions had taken the lead but conceded twice late in the match, allowing the defending world champions to secure a place in Sunday’s final against Spain.
The defeat sparked criticism of Tuchel’s tactical decisions, particularly his substitutions during the closing stages of the contest. However, the Football Association has made it clear that the result has not altered its confidence in the England manager.
Speaking after the semi-final, Thomas Tuchel confirmed that he intends to remain in the role and continue working under his current agreement, which now runs through the 2028 European Championship.
“We keep on going with the contract until the home Euros,” Tuchel said.
“I’m looking forward to that even though right now it’s difficult to look that far ahead.”
The England boss acknowledged the disappointment of falling short of the World Cup final but insisted the squad should not overlook what had been achieved during the tournament.
“A lot of big football nations are eliminated before the semi-final, so it is an achievement,” he said.
“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.”
Tuchel originally took charge of England in January 2025 after agreeing to an 18-month mission focused on winning the World Cup. In February this year, he signed a two-year contract extension, ensuring he would remain in charge through the 2028 European Championship.
Euro 2028 will be jointly hosted by England, Wales, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland, making it one of the biggest tournaments ever staged across the British Isles.
Football Association chief executive Mark Bullingham also reaffirmed his support for Thomas Tuchel, praising the commitment shown by the players and coaching staff throughout the competition despite the semi-final disappointment.
“It is heartbreaking to be so close,” Bullingham said after England’s defeat.
“The players and Thomas gave it everything today and the squad, coaches and staff could not have worked harder during the tournament.”
He also thanked England supporters who travelled to the United States and those watching from home, recognising their backing throughout the World Cup campaign.
“I would like to thank them all – and also give my heartfelt thanks to our wonderful fans here in the USA and at home,” Bullingham added.
Although England narrowly missed out on a place in the final, the Football Association is expected to view the tournament as a positive step under Thomas Tuchel. Reaching the last four represented one of England’s strongest World Cup performances in decades.
The team now turns its attention to Saturday’s bronze-medal match against France. Victory in that fixture would secure England’s best finish at a men’s World Cup since lifting the trophy in 1966.
Despite criticism following the semi-final defeat, the FA’s public backing indicates that Tuchel remains central to its long-term plans. The governing body believes continuity will provide the best platform for England as preparations begin for Euro 2028 on home soil.
For Tuchel, the immediate challenge will be helping his players recover from the disappointment of missing out on the final before finishing the tournament on a positive note against France. Beyond that, attention will gradually shift towards building a squad capable of competing for the European title when England co-host the championship in 2028.
With the Football Association standing firmly behind him, Thomas Tuchel is expected to continue shaping England’s future despite the heartbreak of another missed opportunity on the World Cup stage.
