Tuchel admits England not World Cup favourites, but can 'dare to dream'

Thomas Tuchel insists England should not be considered World Cup favourites, despite bookmakers placing them among the leading contenders. Speaking in Florida ahead of the final warm‑up match against Costa Rica, the German coach argued that the nation’s 60‑year wait for a title prevents them from carrying true favourite status. He compared England’s situation to a player arriving at Wimbledon without a previous championship: not the favourite, but still capable of winning.

Tuchel, preparing for his first World Cup as a national‑team manager, stressed the importance of approaching the tournament step by step. His experience in Champions League knockout campaigns, he said, taught him that once a team reaches the quarter‑finals, anything becomes possible. England will begin their campaign on June 17 in Dallas against Croatia.

Despite his caution, Tuchel emphasised the squad’s belief, noting that ambition must be matched by discipline, hard work and the resilience to handle setbacks.