Thomas Tuchel has been backed to lead England into Euro 2028 — but the Football Association has made it clear that his future is not completely untouchable if the World Cup goes badly wrong.
The England boss is under contract through to the home European Championship in 2028, a major show of faith from the FA as they try to build long-term stability around the national team. The plan is simple: give Tuchel enough time to chase World Cup glory in North America and then lead the Three Lions into a huge tournament on home soil two years later.
But there is a sharp edge to that confidence. FA chief executive Mark Bullingham has hinted that performance clauses still exist in Tuchel’s deal, meaning the German coach could be dismissed if England underperform at the World Cup.
It creates a fascinating and high-pressure situation. On paper, Tuchel is tied to England until 2028. In reality, his future may still depend heavily on what happens over the next few weeks.
The FA’s decision to extend his deal before the World Cup was designed to prevent speculation from becoming a distraction. If England go deep, Tuchel’s position will look stronger than ever. If they win the trophy, he could become the man who finally ends decades of heartbreak for English football.
But if England crash out early, the entire mood could change overnight.
Tuchel was appointed with one clear mission: win. England have come close in recent years, reaching major finals under Gareth Southgate, but the country is still waiting for its first men’s senior trophy since 1966. That history means every tournament comes with enormous expectation, and Tuchel knows there will be little patience if things fall apart.
The German coach has impressed FA officials with his energy, charisma and work behind the scenes. He has also adapted well to international management, despite previously spending most of his career in elite club football.
Still, England’s World Cup build-up has already been full of distractions, from selection controversies to off-field chaos. That makes Tuchel’s job even more complicated as he tries to keep the squad focused.
For now, the FA are publicly backing their manager. They want Tuchel to be the man in charge when England help host Euro 2028.
But the message is clear: support does not mean immunity.
Tuchel has the contract, the backing and the opportunity. Now he needs the results.
