Thomas Tuchel: England not big favourite to win World Cup
By Joel Masibo, June 10, 2026England manager Thomas Tuchel has dismissed suggestions that his side should be considered among the leading contenders for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting the Three Lions must earn that recognition after a long wait for global success.
Speaking to journalists before England’s final pre-tournament friendly against Costa Rica in Orlando on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, Tuchel urged caution over expectations surrounding his team. His comments came after England’s narrow 1-0 victory over New Zealand in their previous warm-up match.
When questioned about England’s chances of lifting the trophy, Tuchel responded by challenging the notion that his side belongs at the top of the list of favorites.
Tuchel weighs in
“How many favorites are there?” replied Tuchel when asked if England was among the teams tipped to win the tournament.
“We’re not the top favorites. We can’t be because we haven’t won it for so many years. There are proven winners in the tournament with more success.”
Despite downplaying England’s status, the German tactician stressed that his squad remains ambitious and determined to compete for the title.
“We compete, we dream big and we know what it takes. Responsibility is on the effort and that is where the focus is. We see ourselves as competitors and challengers. We want to go all the way but I don’t think we are the heavy favorites,” commented the coach.
Tuchel also explained why he selected Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice as vice-captain alongside skipper Harry Kane. The England boss emphasised that Kane remains the undisputed leader of the squad, while Rice has emerged as a natural deputy.
“Declan and Harry are the two guys with the armband. Harry is our captain, no doubt about it. And Declan is our second captain. When Harry wasn’t in camp and didn’t play against Wales, we had a choice, and it was a very quick one from me to give it to Declan,” said Tuchel.
The coach praised Rice’s leadership qualities and influence on the pitch, highlighting the midfielder’s intelligence and consistency over the past two seasons with Arsenal.
Rice earns Tuchel’s trust
Tuchel described Rice as having “a high football IQ. He takes care of the formation and structure, the adaptation, and the rhythm of our game. He’s had two outstanding seasons with Arsenal… He’s one of the best midfielders in Europe at the moment, full of confidence. That’s why he is my vice-captain,” he said.
The former Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager added that morale within the England camp is currently positive and calm, though he expects the pressure levels to increase as the tournament draws nearer.
According to Tuchel, there is currently a “relaxed atmosphere” among the players, but “the tension will just rise naturally, especially when we change location to Kansas and then have four days to prepare for the first game,” he explained.
England will begin their World Cup journey on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, when they face Croatia in their opening group-stage fixture.