Butt’s strong criticism of Tuchel’s tactics

By Hannah Whitfield · Sports Reporter · 17.07.2026

By Hannah Whitfield — 17 July 2026 — 3 min read

Butt’s strong criticism of Tuchel’s tactics

Following England‘s exit from the World Cup semi-finals, former England midfielder Nicky Butt has called for manager Thomas Tuchel to be replaced. Butt’s comments came after England, despite taking a 1-0 lead through Anthony Gordon, lost to Argentina, who scored two late goals from Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez to secure their place in the final. This defeat meant England missed out on their first World Cup final appearance since 1966.

Butt expressed his strong opinion on Tuchel’s future, stating there was “no way he can stay on” after the semi-final loss. He suggested that if Tuchel were to remain, John McDermott, the FA technical director, should also be dismissed. Butt criticised Tuchel’s tactical approach during the match, describing it as negative, especially given the talent within the England squad.

He argued that Tuchel failed to engage the public’s imagination and played into the opposition’s hands during the crucial game. Tuchel’s decision to adopt a defensive strategy was highlighted as a contributing factor to the team’s downfall.

Potential replacements and future strategy

As discussions turn to who might lead the national team next, Butt identified two primary candidates: Eddie Howe and Pep Guardiola. While he acknowledged that the timing might be difficult for Guardiola, who recently concluded a ten-year tenure at Manchester City, Butt praised Howe’s work in transforming Newcastle into a top-tier side since 2021, leading them to two Champions League campaigns and a League Cup triumph.

Butt also mentioned Mauricio Pochettino as a strong contender for the role, citing his existing relationship with John McDermott. Pochettino recently guided the USMNT to the round of 16 in this summer’s World Cup before a 4-1 defeat against Belgium. Butt noted that Pochettino and McDermott worked closely during their time at Tottenham, a relationship he observed while working within the Manchester United academy system.

Beyond managerial changes, Butt suggested a long-term strategy for England‘s national team. He proposed that the FA should focus on building a young team capable of winning the 2030 World Cup, even if it means effectively writing off the next Euros in 2028. As part of this plan, Butt advocated for the immediate inclusion of young players, such as Arsenal midfielder Max Dowman, into the England squad.

Butt believes that Dowman, who made 13 appearances for Mikel Arteta‘s Arsenal team last season, should play in every international break from now on to gain experience. He emphasised the importance of developing a winning mentality from a young age, rather than expecting players to become winners later in their careers. Butt argued that England needs to take steps backward to move forward, even if it means losing with younger players initially.

Tuchel, however, defended his tactics, suggesting that the issue lay with the “DNA” of English football. He stated that the team became too passive and lacked physicality after conceding the first goal, leading to a dramatic drop in ball possession. Tuchel noted that the team struggled to win duels and prevent opponents from making runs, which was never the intended plan. The reigning champions Argentina are set to face Spain in the World Cup final on Sunday.

Source: goal.com

Hannah Whitfield

Sports Reporter

As Latest News UK's Sports Reporter, Hannah Whitfield reports on tennis, cricket and athletics for readers across the country. She built her name covering the county circuit and Team GB at two Commonwealth Games. She holds a degree in Sport and Media from Loughborough University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Hannah lives in Bristol, where she plays club tennis and coaches a junior side. “Sport is at its best when you let the athletes tell the story.”