Thomas Tuchel has informed Sky News that he intends to “begin learning” the national anthem after inquiries regarding whether he will sing it prior to England matches.
The 51-year-old German, who has been officially introduced as the new head coach of the Three Lions, expressed during a press conference that he had not yet reached a conclusion concerning the matter.
Nonetheless, in a subsequent conversation with Sky News sports correspondent Rob Harris, Tuchel remarked: “I will definitely commence learning it.
“I have felt it three times here at Wembley during the cup finals – it was incredibly touching. I do not wish to offend anyone.”
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Tuchel’s response regarding singing the anthem
He continued: “I will now start to gauge the sentiments, understand what people think, and assess the ambiance surrounding this matter, and then make my decision, although it will not alter my commitment to work diligently towards achieving our goals.”
This comes in light of a controversy involving current interim manager Lee Carsley, who played for Ireland and has declared he will not sing God Save The King prior to matches involving the Three Lions.
When addressed by media representatives during an earlier press conference, Tuchel remarked: “I will take a bit of time to ponder this decision.”
The Football Association disclosed in a briefing on Wednesday that approximately 10 candidates were considered for the position, which Tuchel is set to assume in 2025.
The association’s chief executive Mark Bullingham stated: “We interviewed around 10 individuals, including some English candidates within that group. You wouldn’t expect me to provide any more specifics on that.”
When questioned on whether any applicants declined the opportunity, Mr. Bullingham responded: “Clearly, some candidates were more enthusiastic about the role than others. However, we were extremely pleased to have secured Thomas.”
Mr. Bullingham added: “We believe he offers us the best chance of winning the World Cup, so we feel we made the optimal choice for this position.”
Thomas Tuchel beamed with joy at the news conference. Pic: PA
Prior to accepting the England position, Tuchel had been heavily associated with Manchester United, where manager Erik ten Hag is facing scrutiny.
When questioned regarding those rumors and his specific choice of England, Tuchel stated: “The proposition and the manner in which Mark (Bullingham) and John (McDermott, the FA’s technical director) presented it was extremely quick, very thrilling, and relied on confidentiality and trust.
“It was direct. This was a choice for this role and not a decision against any other opportunity.”
“I will refrain from commenting on other clubs.”
Tuchel initiates charm offensive – yet on-field results will be of utmost importance
Dealing with disdain and fervor is part of the role – even for English head coaches managing the national team.
Thus, all Thomas Tuchel could do was stage a charm offensive at his debut appearance at Wembley – showcasing the national team’s jersey on the field.
He reiterated the prepared mantra about dreaming of adding a second star to the jersey by winning the 2026 World Cup.
He also expressed his admiration for England and its football culture.
The German manager asserted he was fortunate not to have seen the Daily Mail’s back page proclaiming his appointment as indicative of a “dark day for England” – reminiscent of how Sven-Goran Eriksson’s selection in 2000 was criticized as “selling our birthright”.
In contrast to Eriksson and Fabio Capello, this third foreign leader of the Three Lions has hands-on experience coaching in England.
Tuchel may prefer not to linger on the brevity of his previous stint – which lasted a mere 15 months at Chelsea — but rather on the subsequent turnaround and swift achievements.
While the lesser-valued Club World Cup is on his record, no England manager has secured any format of senior World Cup victory since Sir Alf Ramsey in 1966.
However, the quest to cease 58 years of disappointment extends beyond just tactically reshaping the squad.
It involves forging a bond with supporters, where symbols can become focal points – and the team may serve as a barometer of national pride.
“I will certainly begin learning the national anthem,” Tuchel conveyed to Sky News, recalling its significance during Wembley cup finals when he was coach at Chelsea.
“It was incredibly touching, but I have not yet decided whether I will sing it. There’s still some time for that.”
“And regardless of my choice, I aim to avoid causing offense. I will sense the atmosphere and gauge public sentiment surrounding it.”
Even the trepidation of causing offense highlights how much of this role demands careful navigation – where peculiarities, absurdities, and controversies can detract from the fundamental responsibilities.
Tuchel expressed that he was persuaded to accept the role because it centered on football “not sports politics.”
Such optimism may be unrealistic, considering Gareth Southgate had to maneuver through challenges ranging from Brexit to human rights — all while guiding England to consecutive European Championship finals.
For Tuchel, the ultimate goal remains how to guide the team to secure trophies.
“We believe we possess all the necessary qualities,” Tuchel stated. “However, it is now up to us to identify the right elements and cultivate the right team with the appropriate mindset to achieve this.”
Tuchel has showcased the mentality and resolve necessary to elevate himself from coaching in Germany’s lower leagues to securing one of the most prestigious positions in global football.
He articulated a compelling vision today. However, beginning in March, he will need to translate words into actions on the pitch.
In a previous video addressed to supporters, Tuchel stated his ambition for a “second star” on the England jersey – an achievement that can only be realized through winning the World Cup.
While speaking from Wembley Stadium, the former Chelsea manager remarked: “I’m feeling quite a mix of nerves; this is my inaugural message as head coach of England.
“There certainly is reason to feel a bit anxious, which I believe is positive. I assure you that I am thrilled and deeply honored.
“We will exert every effort to qualify for the World Cup and subsequently strive to achieve the second star on our jersey.”
Further reading:
Insights into England’s new manager
Live updates: Tuchel’s news conference
Tuchel confirms deal as England manager
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New England manager conveys message to supporters
Tuchel further expressed his ambitions to win over doubtful supporters who feel that the Three Lions ought to be overseen exclusively by an English individual.
He stated: “I will exert all efforts to demonstrate my respect for this position and for this nation… regardless of what [my] nationality may indicate.”
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German supporters react to Tuchel’s appointment
Tuchel asserted his belief that the England men’s squad possesses the “components” required to secure their first significant tournament victory since the 1966 World Cup.
He also refrained from commenting on whether Harry Kane, whom he coached at Bayern Munich, will continue as England captain, indicating it was “premature to address these types of inquiries.”
As per the FA’s announcement, Tuchel’s contract spans 18 months and was signed last Tuesday.
