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Harry Kane Backs Thomas Tuchel After Semi‑Final Tactical Backlash

Tuchel remains England coach under a contract that runs through the home Euro 2028.

Overview

  • Kane, speaking on Monday, publicly defended Tuchel as "a fantastic coach" and said the team and coach must process the semi-final loss together.
  • The criticism focuses on Tuchel's decision to substitute three defenders and switch to a five‑man backline after Anthony Gordon put England 1-0 up, a move that preceded Argentina's late two goals.
  • High-profile voices including Thomas Müller and former England players Wayne Rooney and Michael Owen voiced sharp public doubts about those tactical changes and England's shutdown of the flanks.
  • Tuchel has framed the tournament as his first major test with England, said he will continue in the job, and reports confirm his contract runs through the home Euro 2028.
  • England still posted their best World Cup finish since 1966 by beating France 6-4 for third place, a result that gives Tuchel a platform to learn, rebuild trust with fans, and prepare for Euro 2028.