Thomas Tuchel's appointment as England manager a bold move: Alan Shearer

Former England captain Alan Shearer believes the Three Lions "need a manager capable of delivering a trophy" after the appointment of German coach Thomas Tuchel as their new manager. Notably, the Football Association (FA) has appointed German Thomas Tuchel as the new manager of the England men's football team. 

In Short

• Thomas Tuchel appointed as England men's football team manager
• Alan Shearer said England need a manager who can deliver a trophy
• Tuchel became the third non-British permanent manager of England

Former captain Alan Shearer believes that England's decision to appoint German coach Thomas Tuchel as head coach is a bold move and his success will ultimately be judged by whether he can deliver the long-awaited trophy for the team. The former Chelsea boss, who led the club to Champions League glory in 2021, became the third non-British permanent manager of the Three Lions. His immediate task will be preparing the squad for the 2026 World Cup, with hopes high for ending the nation’s 60-year wait for a major international trophy.

"We need a trophy-it's as simple as that," Shearer said. "There's no doubt Tuchel has an incredible CV, but this will be a very different test for him. It's a bold move, but we need a manager who can deliver." Tuchel, 51, is no stranger to English football, having managed Chelsea from January 2021 until September 2022. His familiarity with the Premier League could give him an edge, setting him apart from previous non-British England managers Sven-Goran Eriksson and Fabio Capello. However, Shearer insists the pressure will be immense as Tuchel is expected to navigate the talent-rich England squad toward success.

"They [the FA] know this group of players is the best England has had for a long time," Shearer added.

Gary Lineker, another former England striker, echoed Shearer's sentiments but offered a different take on the appointment. "Tuchel will have looked at this squad and thought, 'This is an unbelievable opportunity to win the greatest trophy of all,'" Lineker said. However, he admitted that he would have preferred to see Lee Carsley, the interim manager, take the reins permanently. "I have seen enough to suggest the players trust him, and that he could bring entertaining, front-footed football."

The appointment comes after Gareth Southgate stepped down following England's defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final. Micah Richards, former England defender, expressed his support for Tuchel, noting the lack of strong English candidates.

"I was of the opinion that we don't need an English manager-just get the best person for the job. And I think Tuchel is an outstanding manager, a proven winner," Richards said.

Tuchel is set to make his first appearance as England manager at a media conference at Wembley on Wednesday afternoon. Fans will be watching closely as the German tactician takes on the monumental task of delivering success for a nation desperate to reclaim its place at the top of world football.