England’s Future Under Tuchel: Addressing Critical Challenges Ahead of Euro 2028

What next for England How does – The Football Association’s decision to appoint Thomas Tuchel as national team manager appeared to be a sound move, yet the German coach found himself facing an unexpected crisis following England’s disappointing semi-final departure from the World Cup. Rather than celebrating a run to the last four, Tuchel must now confront several pressing issues before the team begins their Euro 2028 campaign as co-hosts. The defeat to Argentina, which saw England surrender a lead in the closing stages, has left many questions unanswered about the squad’s composition and tactical approach.

Looking ahead, England face a crucial Nations League fixture against Spain at Wembley Stadium on September 26th. This encounter could serve as preparation for potential future meetings between the two nations. Additional Nations League matches against Czechia and Croatia will also feature in the schedule, providing further opportunities for Tuchel to experiment with his lineup. The Euro 2028 qualifying campaign represents the next major milestone for the Three Lions, who will compete despite their automatic qualification as hosts.

The Striker Situation: Finding Solutions Beyond Kane

Harry Kane’s performance during the World Cup cannot be disputed, with six goals to his name in the tournament. However, concerns about his longevity remain valid. The Bayern Munich forward, who celebrated 61 goals across all competitions last season in the Bundesliga, will turn 33 on July 28th. Following the Argentina defeat, Kane expressed his thoughts on the future:

It was “too early” to talk about playing at the finals in 2030.

While Kane will undoubtedly feature at Euro 2028, Tuchel needs to identify reliable alternatives who can step in when necessary. Phil Foden attempted a false nine position against Uruguay in March but failed to convince, ultimately missing out on World Cup selection. Meanwhile, Ollie Watkins and Ivan Toney received minimal playing time, with Watkins managing just six minutes against Panama and Toney appearing only in stoppage time versus Argentina.

The statistics reveal England’s heavy dependence on their captain. Kane played every minute except stoppage time against Mexico, where Morgan Rogers took his place. Watkins, who finished as the Premier League’s leading English striker with 16 goals last season, barely featured. Toney, also 30 years old, received limited opportunities. This over-reliance becomes increasingly problematic as Kane approaches 35.

Other options exist but raise questions about depth. Dominic Solanke, aged 28, and Dominic Calvert-Lewin, 29, represent the remaining strikers utilized within the past year. When examining Premier League performers who reached double figures, only Watkins (14 goals), Calvert-Lewin (14), and Brighton’s Danny Welbeck (13) qualify. None of these players benefit from youth, and the pipeline of emerging talent remains uncertain.

Eddie Nketiah, England’s all-time Under-21 record goalscorer, was expected to emerge as a prolific option. His two seasons at Crystal Palace have yielded merely five Premier League goals. Liam Delap, just 23 years old, scored 12 goals for Ipswich Town during 2024-25 and may find success at Chelsea or elsewhere. Whether these players can address immediate needs or solve longer-term problems remains to be seen.

Midfield Confidence: The Mainoo Question

Another significant concern involves Kobbie Mainoo’s World Cup experience. The Manchester United midfielder, who enjoyed an impressive second half of the season under Michael Carrick, failed to register a single minute of playing time at the tournament. Unlike the attacking positions where Tuchel had choices, the midfield required changes, yet Mainoo was overlooked in favor of Reece James or Nico O’Reilly in deeper roles.

This decision raises fundamental questions about trust and selection. If Tuchel did not consider Mainoo worthy of a substitute appearance, what purpose did his inclusion serve? The midfielder is only 21 years old and possesses considerable potential for development. England have other promising options in this area as well, including Palace’s Adam Wharton, who at 22 years old has earned four caps but narrowly missed tournament selection.

These challenges present Tuchel with substantial work ahead. Rebuilding squad confidence, addressing positional weaknesses, and identifying emerging talent will define his tenure. The road to Euro 2028 offers both opportunity and pressure for the 52-year-old manager as he seeks to transform England’s fortunes on the international stage.