German journalists have mocked the FA’s decision to appoint Thomas Tuchel as the next permanent England head coach.
Tuchel was formally announced as Gareth Southgate’s permanent replacement on Wednesday morning, having agreed to sign an 18-month deal to take charge of the national side from January 1.
He is the third foreign manager to coach the Three Lions, following in the footsteps of Sven-Goran Eriksson and Fabio Capello.
“I am very proud to have been given the honour of leading the England team,” Tuchel said, in a statement released by the FA.
“I have long felt a personal connection to the game in this country, and it has given me some incredible moments already. To have the chance to represent England is a huge privilege, and the opportunity to work with this special and talented group of players is very exciting.”
Tuchel is tasked with leading England to the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada and Mexico – with the Three Lions one of the favourites to go all of the way at the tournament after finishing runners-up at Euro 2024.
His appointment has split opinion, with some questioning the appointment of another foreign coach.
“I think everybody in our country including myself will wish him all the best and hope we can get over the line and win a trophy,” Gary Neville told Sky Sports.
“But I think there are some serious questions for the FA to answer in respect of English coaching. I do think we are damaging ourselves by accepting that Thomas Tuchel is better than any of the other English coaches.”
Tuchel’s appointment has also raised eyebrows in his native Germany.
Bild journalist Matthias Bruegelmann branded the FA and England ‘desperate’.
He wrote: “Let’s talk about Thomas Tuchel and the English. The motherland of football is getting a German dad. Crazy! Since 1966 – since 1966!!!! – the proud football nation has been waiting for a title (and sorry, even the World Cup victory was only possible because the referee made a mistake on the Wembley goal).
Thomas Tuchel has been appointed England head coach (Image: Getty)
“So it will soon be 60 years without a title. In that time we have become world champions three times and European champions three times. Oops. The desperation on the island must be enormous if they admit that only a German can help now.
“What a tribute to Tuchel and German football that the English are overcoming their fears despite the huge rivalry.”
Sky Germany reporter Kerry Hau added that Tuchel’s appointment was a ‘big surprise’ but said the former Chelsea manager ‘loves England’.
However, Tuchel has received some support from his compatriots, despite switching his international allegiance to England.
Former Liverpool star Didi Hamann told Sky Germany: “England is getting an excellent coach.
“He knows the Premier League and his good relationship with Harry Kane certainly helps.”