Secret revealed: Reasons why England has not dismissed Tuchel despite missing the 2026 World Cup final.
On 18 July 2026, The Athletic, a leading British sports outlet, disclosed two reasons why Thomas Tuchel has not been removed as England's national team coach despite heavy criticism over his tactical decisions that cost the team a place in the 2026 World Cup final.
Sources said the English Football Association (FA) and Thomas Tuchel have a confidential contract clause allowing immediate separation after the 2026 World Cup if England fails by being eliminated before the quarterfinals.
However, this clause was not applied since Tuchel led England to the semifinals, despite intense pressure over his substitutions focusing too early on defensive tactics, which allowed Argentina to come from behind and win 2-1 in injury time.
England still has a fixture in the 2026 World Cup third-place playoff against France on the night of Saturday, 18 July, which corresponds to 04:00 on Sunday, 19 July Thai time.
Furthermore, Thomas Tuchel continues to receive support from the FA to remain in his role through Euro 2028 after his contract was extended in February, with hopes that he will deliver excellent results over the next two years.
The English Football Association will review performance after the 2026 World Cup as usual, and it is expected that Tuchel will continue as coach. Additionally, replacing him now could result in a large compensation payment as stipulated in the agreed contract terms.