Thomas Tuchel set his sights on finally landing England another World Cup after being confirmed as their new manager.
The German coach has signed an 18-month deal with the FA which will see him succeed Gareth Southgate as permanent boss and lead the Three Lions at the 2026 World Cup.
Tuchel will officially begin his new role, and first international job, on January 1, with interim Lee Carsley remaining in charge for England’s Nations League games against Greece and Ireland next month.
The FA had been keen to appoint an experienced manager and the former Champions League winner expressed his desire to end what will be England’s 60 years of hurt once the World Cup rolls around.
In a video posted on England’s official X account, the ex-Chelsea boss said: “Hi guys. Thomas here. [I’m] quite a bit nervous, it’s my first message as the English head coach.
“I’m at Wembley, where else? And there’s also reason to be a bit nervous, I think that’s a good thing.
“I can promise you I’m very excited. I’m very honoured and I will do everything that we have to qualify for the World Cup first of all and then to have a successful World Cup and try to get a second star on our shirt.
“All the best and see you soon in the stadium.”
📩 (1) new message from Thomas Tuchel. pic.twitter.com/ADTVUHpnRN
— England (@England) October 16, 2024
Tuchel spent 18 months in charge of Chelsea, winning the Champions League in 2021 as well as the Super Cup and Club World Cup before he was sacked in September 2022.
He was most recently in charge of Bayern Munich, where he won the title before his depature in May. The 51-year-old also won Ligue 1 twice during his time with Paris Saint-Germain and the German Cup in charge of Borussia Dortmund.
A popular manager during his time at Stamford Bridge, Tuchel spoke of his close connection with the English game and the “huge privilege” it is to have been placed in charge of the national side.
Tuchel said: “I am very proud to have been given the honour of leading the England team. I have long felt a personal connection to the game in this country, and it has given me some incredible moments already.
“To have the chance to represent England is a huge privilege, and the opportunity to work with this special and talented group of players is very exciting.”
