When Thomas Tuchel took the reins of the England national team, expectations were high — and he’s not wasting any time proving why he was the right choice. With the World Cup qualifiers on the horizon, the former Chelsea boss has thrown himself into the job with his trademark intensity and attention to detail. Tuchel’s approach is already making waves, from his extensive scouting efforts to his commitment to building personal connections with players.
One of Tuchel’s first major moves as England manager has been assembling a long list of 55 potential call-ups — a clear indication of the depth of talent he’s exploring. This expansive list includes both familiar names and rising stars, showing Tuchel’s intent to keep every option on the table as he shapes his vision for the squad.
But it’s not just about names on a list. Tuchel has been putting in the hours — and lots of them. He’s spent significant time at St George’s Park, the Football Association’s headquarters, immersing himself in the infrastructure and getting a feel for the environment where his players train. Reports even suggest he’s spent more time there than his predecessor, Gareth Southgate.
In addition to his presence on the ground, Tuchel has been on the phone — a lot. He’s made it a priority to speak directly with dozens of players, establishing relationships and making sure they feel seen and valued. This proactive approach sets the tone for the culture he’s building: one based on trust, communication, and mutual respect.
Tuchel’s commitment to building bridges extends beyond the obvious picks for his squad. In a move that surprised many, he’s reached out to Ben White — a player who stepped away from the England setup after a sudden and unexpected departure. White’s absence from the national team seemed permanent, but Tuchel’s willingness to reopen that dialogue speaks volumes about his inclusive philosophy.
Beyond domestic talent, Tuchel has also made it a point to connect with English players thriving abroad. He’s reportedly been in touch with high-profile stars like Harry Kane, Kyle Walker, and Jude Bellingham, traveling to meet them and lay the groundwork for future collaboration. It’s this level of personal investment that shows Tuchel’s dedication to creating a cohesive and motivated squad.
Tuchel’s meticulous approach and exhaustive preparation underline his ambition for England. He understands that success on the international stage requires more than just assembling talented individuals — it’s about creating a unified team with a shared vision.
