Thomas Tuchel prioritizes family over England coaching duties
- Thomas Tuchel has been granted regular trips back to Germany to visit his family.
- These absences have led him to miss several crucial matches for England, including Premier League weekends and cup games.
- The situation raises concerns about the effects of these absences on team performance and preparation for future competitions.
In early January 2025, Thomas Tuchel's role as the head coach of the England national football team has been significantly affected by his need for family time in Germany. Hired on an 18-month contract with a salary of £5 million, Tuchel was given the responsibility to lead England in their quest for success in the 2026 World Cup. However, the Football Association (FA) has granted him the flexibility to make regular trips back home, which has resulted in him missing a considerable number of pivotal matches, including three Premier League weekends, one round of the FA Cup, and four Carabao Cup semi-final matches within the first six and a half weeks of his tenure as head coach. This decision has raised eyebrows within the football community as it disrupts the continuity required for national team preparation. In the interim, Lee Carsley remained in charge during Tuchel's absence, leading the team in critical matches through the Nations League, thus placing additional pressure on the incoming coach. The FA's choice to allow Tuchel to delay his start also extended the period without permanent management for the England squad, leading to questions about the decision-making processes related to the national team's leadership and direction. The implications of Tuchel's extended absence may result in a negative impact on team morale and performance, especially as the team gears up for major upcoming tournaments.