England secured third place at the 2026 World Cup but was eliminated earlier in the semifinals by Argentina. Thomas Tuchel, the Three Lions’ coach, was criticized for using the wrong tactics. Harry Kane has now commented on the matter.
The Bayern star and Tuchel are known to have a good relationship. The two worked very well together back in Munich, even though they didn’t win any titles that season, which ended with Tuchel’s departure.
That didn’t work out with the English national team either, but Kane’s performance was nonetheless very positive, and especially in the third-place match—a 6-4 win over France—England once again showed that they can play good soccer.
Kane Addresses Criticism of Tuchel
Kane, who had an outstanding season and also put up fantastic numbers at the World Cup, spoke candidly after the match against France.
“He’s a big reason why we’re here, a big reason why we’ve achieved our best finish in 60 years. Of course, there are a lot of ‘what-if’ questions from that night against Argentina,” said Kane.
But: “He’s one of the best coaches in the world, but even the best make mistakes. That goes for us players, too. Of course, the fans have every right to be angry. Thomas knew when he took the job that there would be a lot of pressure and a lot at stake.”
Whether Tuchel will continue to work with Kane on the English national team remains unclear at this point. There will be a comprehensive analysis after the tournament, during which all the facts will be laid out on the table.
Kane himself has at least left open the possibility of playing in one more World Cup. Meanwhile, it’s considered out of the question that he’ll miss the 2028 European Championship, which England will co-host.