Advertisement
Tuchel challenges England to make statement against Spain
26th September, 2026 08:38 AM
England manager Thomas Tuchel has challenged his players to deliver a complete display when they face Spain at Wembley on Saturday night, September 26, 2026.
The match marks England’s return to competitive action following the summer World Cup, with the Three Lions beginning their Nations League campaign in a difficult group featuring Spain, Croatia and Czechia.
Tuchel believes England must rise to the occasion if they are to overcome the reigning world champions.
“We need a complete performance if we want to have a chance to beat Spain,” said Tuchel. “We want to be the team to beat them and we want to prove a point.
“I don’t see the value in copying Spain and think the copy can be better than the original. I don’t see the true point in it. That does not mean we ignore what they are doing well.” He said.
Spain arrive at Wembley having gone unbeaten at the World Cup and conceding only once throughout the tournament, underlining the challenge facing Tuchel’s team.
The England boss also expects his side to spend periods without possession as they attempt to cope with Spain’s trademark passing game.
“Spain are happy to wear you down. You cannot be greedy – we need to pick out moments of when to press,” Tuchel said when asked about the possibility of the Wembley crowd becoming frustrated if the visitors dominate possession.
Tuchel on supporters’ reaction
Tuchel added that he could not dictate how the supporters would react but believes the strong demand for tickets shows the level of excitement surrounding the fixture.
“But I cannot influence the atmosphere. I’d be surprised if it would hold a third-place or 85th-minute exit against our team. How fast it sold out shows me how excited people are to come and watch.
“But Spain are happy to control the ball and rhythm. There can be spells where we have to suffer. But hopefully also spells where we dominate and can bring the attributes to [hurt them].”
England will therefore need to remain disciplined without the ball while taking advantage of the opportunities that come their way against a Spain side renowned for controlling possession and tempo.
