I’m surprised’ – Wayne Rooney confused by FA’s decision to appoint Thomas Tuchel as new England manager

A permanent successor to Gareth Southgate has been sought since a man that led the Three Lions to two European Championship finals stepped down from the most demanding of roles. Reins were handed to U21 boss Lee Carsley on an interim basis.

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  THE BIGGER PICTURE

  Carsley has overseen three wins and a defeat during his four UEFA Nations League fixtures at the helm and will remain in charge for clashes with Greece and the Republic of Ireland during the November break in domestic duty. Former Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich boss Tuchel will take over from January 1, 2025.

  • WHAT ROONEY SAID

    German tactician Tuchel becomes England’s third foreign manager, with Rooney – who played under Sven-Goran Eriksson and Fabio Capello when earning 120 caps for his country – has said of the FA overlooking home-grown talent: “I’m surprised. He’s a very good coach but I’m surprised the FA have employed him. But I wish him all the best and I hope he does well.

    “What the FA have built over the last 10-15 years has been a great platform for young coaches coming through, so I’m surprised they haven’t gone with one of their own but, as I said, they have made the decision and I wish him all the best and I hope he does well for us.”

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    WHAT NEXT?

    Tuchel has only been handed an initial 18-month contract, taking him through to the end of the 2026 World Cup cycle. While questions are being asked of why an English coach could not be found, Tuchel does have Ligue 1, Bundesliga and Champions League triumphs on an impressive CV.