Lee Carsley is confident that England will be well-positioned to win the next World Cup under Thomas Tuchel's leadership when he takes over the national team in the new year. The Football Association has been transparent about their rationale for appointing Tuchel, offering him an 18-month contract with the explicit goal of ending the men's team's drought for a major trophy. The desire for success has intensified for England following a string of close calls under Gareth Southgate, but Carsley, who expanded the talent pool and secured promotion to the top tier of the Nations League during his interim tenure, is optimistic about the squad's potential to triumph in Canada, Mexico, and the USA in 2026.
"I believe we are in a strong position to achieve that," Carsley stated. "We have the talent required. I've been fortunate to attend the last couple of World Cups, and the timing of the players being in peak condition, both physically and mentally, at the right moment, selecting the right squad. We possess all the necessary tools. We just need to deploy them in the correct sequence."
Carsley promoted several players from the under-21s and introduced eight players to the international stage during his interim spell. He made bold tactical adjustments, refining the team's style, and concluded on a high note with England's 5-0 victory over the Republic of Ireland on Sunday. A number of previously overlooked players have emerged, with four scoring their first international goals against Ireland, and Carsley believes Tuchel will face a challenging task in selecting his initial squad in March. Lewis Hall, Curtis Jones, Angel Gomes, and Noni Madueke have all made an impression since breaking through under Carsley, who is uncertain when he will meet Tuchel to brief him on the squad.
"I think the sooner the better," Carsley said. "It's crucial first to conduct a thorough debrief, focusing on the three camps rather than reacting solely to results. It's about the entire experience. We will compile our thoughts together, along with the rest of the players, in terms of handing over something he can review and consider valuable. Then we'll step back to support him."
Carsley will return to his role as under-21s manager, but he disclosed that Joleon Lescott will not continue as part of his backroom staff. Regarding his aspirations for club management, Carsley emphasized that he is content with his current position. He is among several managers linked with the vacancy at Coventry City.
"I love coaching the under-21s, I absolutely love it," the 50-year-old said. "It's all about the players. I'm not one who is chasing anything. I'm genuinely satisfied with the job I do and I'll give it my best."
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