Fans have been reacting on social media after watching Thomas Tuchel’s England for the very first time.
On Friday night, Tuchel finally took charge of his first England match after agreeing to become Gareth Southgate’s replacement back in October 2024.
The German started his role in January but had to wait till this week to work with the England players.
In front of a packed crowd inside Wembley, England took the lead with 20 minutes on the clock thanks to a debut goal from Arsenal star Myles Lewis-Skelly.
England pushed for a second goal in the second period but were faced with a stubborn Albanian defence.
Eventually, England found their second goal with captain Harry Kane netting in the 78th minute.
In the end, the hosts held on to secure a 2-0 victory, giving Tuchel the perfect start to life as the Three Lions’ new head coach.
Reacting to Tuchel’s first outing, fans have noticed a major difference when comparing with England under Southgate.
On social media, one fan said: “Tuchel winning me over so far I’ve never seen an England team press in my life.”
Another tweeted: “I’ve been waiting my whole life for an England manager with a high press. Think I’m gonna enjoy Tuchel ball.”
Thomas Tuchel impressed England fans during his first match in charge. Image: Getty
A third fan added: “The press by us. Tuchel you’re the one.”
Someone else wrote: “You can really see something has changed with this England squad. The speed, the quick reaction to press whenever a team mate loses possession. Thomas Tuchel is doing a great job man…”
A fifth commented: “Impressed with England so far. Playing with an intensity we rarely see on such occasions, although think that was expected on Tuchel’s bow. Counter-press excellent, runners key to unlocking low block.”
Another fan said: “The intensity in the press is SO GOOD.”
England will return to action on Monday when they take on Latvia at Wembley.
Featured Image Credit: Getty
Topics: England, Fan Reactions, Thomas Tuchel, Football
Tuchel Era Begins: Fans Notice Key Tactical Shift in England's Victory
Social media buzzed with reactions as fans witnessed Thomas Tuchel manage England for the first time, highlighting a significant change from the Gareth Southgate era.
Friday night marked Tuchel's debut as England boss, months after he agreed to succeed Gareth Southgate in October 2024. Having officially taken over in January, this international break provided the first opportunity for Tuchel to work directly with the national team players.
Wembley Stadium was packed as England faced Albania, and the home side drew first blood within 20 minutes. Arsenal's young talent, Myles Lewis-Skelly, marked his debut with a goal, putting England ahead. Despite sustained pressure, Albania's defense remained resolute throughout much of the match. However, England's captain, Harry Kane, eventually found the net in the 78th minute, sealing a 2-0 victory for Tuchel in his inaugural match as the Three Lions' head coach.
High Press Tactics Spark Fan Excitement Compared to Southgate's England
The victory itself was celebrated, but the most prominent talking point among fans was the visible tactical shift under Tuchel, particularly compared to England's playstyle under Gareth Southgate. Many supporters took to social media to express their observations, focusing on one key element: England's pressing game.
- Fan Reactions Highlight Tactical Differences:
- "Tuchel winning me over so far I’ve never seen an England team press in my life." one fan exclaimed, pointing to a perceived lack of pressing intensity in previous England setups.
- Another fan echoed this sentiment, tweeting, "I’ve been waiting my whole life for an England manager with a high press. Think I’m gonna enjoy Tuchel ball," suggesting a long-desired tactical approach finally being implemented.
- "The press by us. Tuchel you’re the one," another enthusiastic fan simply stated, showcasing direct approval of the new manager's methods.
- Observed Intensity and Quick Reactions:
- "You can really see something has changed with this England squad. The speed, the quick reaction to press whenever a team mate loses possession. Thomas Tuchel is doing a great job man…" This comment emphasizes not just the pressing itself, but the overall change in tempo and reaction speed of the team.
- One more fan elaborated, "Impressed with England so far. Playing with an intensity we rarely see on such occasions, although think that was expected on Tuchel’s bow. Counter-press excellent, runners key to unlocking low block," analyzing the effectiveness of the counter-press and its role in breaking down Albania's defensive setup.
- "The intensity in the press is SO GOOD," another supporter simply added, reinforcing the recurring theme of pressing intensity being the major takeaway from the match.
With a successful start secured against Albania, England and Thomas Tuchel will be looking to build on this foundation when they face Latvia at Wembley on Monday.
What are your thoughts on Tuchel's debut and the noticeable tactical changes? Join the conversation in the comments below!
Topics: England, Fan Reactions, Thomas Tuchel, Football, England national team, Three Lions, Football Tactics, High Press, Gareth Southgate