Thomas Tuchel’s decision not to sign Cristiano Ronaldo during his tenure at Chelsea highlights a crucial aspect of his managerial style, one that is likely to influence his approach as England’s new head coach. The Football Association (FA) announced Tuchel as Gareth Southgate’s successor, with the German coach set to take over from interim manager Lee Carsley on January 1, 2025, under an 18-month contract that runs through the 2026 World Cup.
Tuchel boasts an impressive managerial record at club level. He made his mark in Germany, first with Mainz and then with Borussia Dortmund, where he won the DFB Pokal in 2017. His career further flourished with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), where he secured two Ligue 1 titles and four domestic cups. At Chelsea, he added the UEFA Champions League, UEFA Super Cup, and Club World Cup to his trophy cabinet. He also guided Bayern Munich to a Bundesliga title.
However, despite Tuchel’s history of working with top talent, he chose not to sign Ronaldo when the opportunity arose. In the summer of 2022, after Manchester United failed to qualify for the Champions League, the club’s new owner, Todd Boehly, wanted to bring Ronaldo to Stamford Bridge. Boehly even met with Ronaldo’s agent, Jorge Mendes, to explore the transfer. But Tuchel reportedly opposed the move, telling Boehly that Ronaldo would “destroy the spirit in my dressing room.”
Just weeks later, Tuchel left Chelsea, with reports suggesting that the decision was partly influenced by his prioritization of team morale. This stance aligns closely with Southgate’s principles during his time in charge of the England national team, where he focused on fostering a sense of unity and camaraderie among players. Tuchel, it seems, shares a similar belief in the importance of team harmony.
The FA emphasized these qualities in their decision to hire Tuchel. CEO Mark Bullingham expressed his enthusiasm for Tuchel’s appointment, describing him as one of the best coaches in the world. The FA had developed a contingency plan before the European Championship, identifying key qualities they sought in a new coach. Bullingham explained that Tuchel stood out for his experience, expertise, and determination.
Alongside Tuchel, Anthony Barry, a top English coaching talent, was also appointed to support the new head coach. Barry has previously gained international experience with teams like the Republic of Ireland, Belgium, and Portugal. The FA made it clear that their goal was to assemble a coaching team capable of guiding England to victory at the 2026 World Cup, and they believe Tuchel and his staff are the right people for the job.
With a clear focus on maintaining team spirit and maximizing the squad’s potential, Tuchel’s arrival brings renewed hope for England’s chances of securing a major tournament win.
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