Thomas Tuchel has revealed details of his post-World Cup discussions with the Football Association after joking that England chiefs “told him off” over his substitutions against Argentina.
The Three Lions manager faced criticism after his side surrendered a late lead in their semi-final defeat, having switched to a more defensive system as pressure mounted.
Tuchel has since reviewed the tournament with FA bosses but insists he never feared for his job.
“I got told off for the subs I made… just joking!” the German said when asked about those talks.
“It’s sometimes painful, sometimes emotional, sometimes beautiful because people speak up about situations that meant a lot to them.”
Argentina scored twice late on to end England’s hopes of a first World Cup triumph since 1966.
However, the 53-year-old remains adamant that nobody can know whether alternative decisions would have produced a different outcome.
“The decisions in the Argentina game, sometimes as a coach you can only win if you win,” he said.
Thomas Tuchel has revealed details of his post-World Cup discussions with the Football Association after joking that England chiefs “told him off” over his substitutions against Argentina
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GETTY
“Who knows what would have happened. If we hadn’t made any subs what would have happened? Who knows.
“I will not allow 30 minutes of this World Cup to override how we view our achievement.”
Tuchel said the strength of the FA’s support became clear even before England’s 3-2 victory over Mexico, when senior figures reassured him that his work would not be judged on one result.
“Before the Mexico game they told me we know anything can happen in a football match but don’t worry, we can see what’s going on,” he revealed.
Lautaro Martinez scored the winner for Argentina against England back in July
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GETTY“I felt this kind of freedom to take my choices and coach freely.”
While Tuchel admitted the ultimate objective was left “unfulfilled”, he remained proud of a group he worked with for seven weeks and defended every selection made during the competition.
“I had not one sleepless night about our selection,” he said.
“I was with these players for seven weeks and they were nothing but fantastic.”
The FA review appears to have strengthened rather than weakened Tuchel’s position, with both parties immediately committed to continuing their partnership.
“There was never a doubt in my mind we’d continue together and there was clearly never a doubt in their mind,” he said.
“Reflection is sometimes necessary to get better and experience is a crucial part.”
Tuchel is now turning his attention towards the Nations League before England begin preparations for a home European Championship.
Thomas Tuchel feels England can win the Nations League
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His contract runs through that tournament and he has made winning it the defining objective of his next cycle, although he does not consider this a complete reset.
“I feel it’s not a new beginning – we build on a solid foundation – and the target is to win the home Euros,” Tuchel said.
“You only get a star for a world championship and my contract is for the Euros.
“The target is to try to win the Nations League.”
