“To have the chance is a huge privilege” - Thomas Tuchel speaks up on England appointment following Manchester United links
Thomas Tuchel has expressed pride after being announced as England's new manager despite intense links with replacing Erik ten Hag at Manchester United. The 51-year-old will start with the Three Lions in January next year and has signed an 18-month contract.
The German will become just the third foreign coach to take charge of England. He follows in the footsteps of Swede Sven Goran-Erikkson and Italian Fabio Capello.
Thomas Tuchel spoke at a press conference as he was unveiled as Gareth Southgate's permanent successor. He said (via The Mirror):
"I am very proud to have been given the honour of leading the England team. 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."
Thomas Tuchel is a popular figure in English football after an impressive reign with Chelsea. He guided the Blues to UEFA Champions League glory in 2021, and his personality was a hit with fans.
The former Bayern Munich boss will be joined by Englishman Anthony Barry, who was his assistant at Stamford Bridge and the Allianz Arena:
"Working closely with Anthony as my assistant coach, we will do everything we can to make England successful and the supporters proud. I want to thank the FA, in particular Mark (Bullingham) and John (McDermott), for their trust and I am looking forward to starting our journey together."
Manchester United had seemingly made Tuchel their top target to replace Ten Hag if they were to part ways. The Dutchman has come under increasing pressure amid the Red Devils' worst start to a Premier League season after seven games.
Thomas Tuchel was aware he was Manchester United's No.1 choice to replace Erik ten Hag: Reports
The Times reports that Thomas Tuchel knew he was Manchester United's top target to replace the under-pressure Ten Hag. The German wasn't willing to wait any longer and opted to succeed Southgate.
The former PSG coach will guide the Three Lions into the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He'll work with several familiar faces, including captain Harry Kane, whom he managed at Bayern, overseeing the striker's European Golden Boot-winning season.
Manchester United's co-owners, INEOS, met last week to discuss Ten Hag's future. He signed a new one-year contract extension in the summer, but his team's poor form seemingly put his job at risk.
Ten Hag was back at Carrington on Tuesday (October 15) which suggests United have decided he'll continue as manager. His troops face Brentford on Saturday (October 19)