At least we now understand why Lee Carsley addressed the nation’s media last week in a manner reminiscent of a comedic 1950s sales executive, flustered and evasive, discussing his potential departure from his wife. The revelation that the Football Association has been in advanced talks with Thomas Tuchel for the vacant England head coach position sheds light on Carsley's interim role and his cryptic discussions about the future.
Carsley must have been aware of executive-level maneuvers, necessitating his obfuscation. In hindsight, his semantic acrobatics were impressive. Perhaps next time, Carsley could use his skills to explain complex topics like dark matter or the paradox of Trigger’s Broom.
The prospect of Tuchel as England’s coach is intriguing and laden with potential. Tuchel’s appointment makes sense; he has experience in England and a European Cup win. Unlike previous coaches like Fabio Capello, Don Revie, and Bobby Robson, Tuchel is a former UEFA Men’s Coach of the Year who led two clubs to the Champions League final in three years.
Tuchel’s recent major final victory with an English team, featuring three English players, aligns with the FA’s desire for possession-centered systems-football. His dismissal by Todd Boehly for not embracing a radical vision of team building can be seen as a positive in retrospect. However, the unpredictability of the job remains a challenge.
The fact that Tuchel is German adds another layer of complexity. While the number of people who would see this as a genuine issue is minimal, some media commentators might still raise it. This should be a concern, as it reflects outdated cultural biases.
Tuchel’s ability to sing God Save the King and his potential reluctance to sing Ten German Bombers highlight cultural sensitivities. Ultimately, these issues are minor compared to the main question: will Tuchel be effective as England’s coach?
From the FA’s perspective, hiring Tuchel is a bold move. His experience with chaotic environments, as seen in his first year at Chelsea, suggests he thrives under pressure. His clarity and warmth during challenging times, such as the Covid-19 pandemic and the collapse of Chelsea’s ownership, further support his suitability.
Tuchel’s success in extreme situations, his ability to win crucial games, and his adaptability make him a strong candidate. While international football lacks a distinct national style, Tuchel’s global experience fits well. His appointment makes sense on most levels, even if some aspects remain unpredictable.
