As England prepares for its World Cup semi-final against Argentina on Wednesday, Thomas Tuchel shared a humorous thought.
“You don’t have to be a horse to be a good jockey.”
This phrase, popularized by Arrigo Sacchi in 1987, reflects Tuchel’s own journey from a limited playing career to a successful coaching path, having had to retire early at 24 due to a knee injury.
Tuchel’s comments come in response to Jude Bellingham’s pointed remarks following England’s 2-1 victory over Norway in Miami. Bellingham expressed his displeasure at Tuchel’s critique of the team’s technical performance, especially after scoring twice in intense conditions. He noted, “I had a mediocre career at best,”
Although Bellingham’s comments stirred some controversy, they also prompted Tuchel to clarify his intentions. He emphasized his appreciation for the team’s efforts against Norway while maintaining his right to point out areas needing improvement, suggesting that this is vital for keeping the squad sharp.
In the lead-up to one of England’s most significant matches, Tuchel has shifted focus onto his players, instilling confidence while acknowledging the immense pressure of the occasion. He reflected on the dream many, including himself, have of playing at this level, stating, “Maybe he doesn’t know what it’s like to play in those kind of conditions against Erling Haaland, [Martin] Ødegaard, [Antonio] Nusa, [Alexander] Sørloth,”
Recalling a moment during an FA Cup final with Chelsea, where he felt the weight of the occasion standing alongside the players for the national anthem, Tuchel recognized the difference between coaching and playing. He remarked, “It just strikes me from time to time on the sideline right before the match that I couldn’t play here on this occasion,”
Tuchel highlighted the unique qualities required to excel in high-stakes matches, praising the players who can rise to the occasion. He acknowledged the historical significance of the upcoming game, noting that England’s World Cup semi-final record includes only three appearances, with victories in 1966 and losses in 1990 and 2018.
While acknowledging Lionel Messi’s stature as a football legend, Tuchel refrained from excessive praise. When asked if Messi is the greatest player, he stated, “I had an FA Cup final with Chelsea where you walk out with the players so I was actually standing there with them for the national anthem. And I just felt like: ‘Wow.’ “It was a good moment for me to put into perspective what I then demand from just 10 metres on the other side of the sideline. It felt so different. I’m so close all the time but just being there, I thought: ‘Wow.’ I had the same moment in my first home Bundesliga match as the Borussia Dortmund coach. It was against Borussia Mönchengladbach and, two minutes before the whistle goes, I think: ‘Wow. I’m so glad I don’t have to play because I would not have the legs for it.’ “You need to be a special breed if you want to take the last step and play in these moments. I cannot praise enough the players who perform, who put out physicality, who open their legs and feel free and put on a fight.”
Tuchel expressed confidence in his team’s ability to confront Messi, referencing their successful strategy against Norway’s Erling Haaland. He outlined that Argentina, despite their past successes, has vulnerabilities, particularly in their defensive structure, which could be exploited.
Questions linger regarding Argentina’s performance, including their width and physicality, especially after their quarter-final against Switzerland. Despite appearing beatable, the defending champions have yet to lose, showcasing their resilience time and again.
As England enters the air-conditioned stadium in Atlanta, optimism prevails, fueled by the team’s potential to exceed expectations. Tuchel noted their ability to create scoring opportunities, even when trailing, which signifies a departure from past conventions. He emphasized his readiness to implement strategic changes as needed.
Feeling the excitement build, Tuchel remarked, “It is to focus on what the players need to do to become that, not to talk about the end product,”
Ultimately, the outcome of the match will rest on the shoulders of his talented squad.
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