The FA has confirmed that Thomas Tuchel, a UEFA Champions League-winning coach, has been appointed as the new head coach of England's senior men's football team. He will be joined by renowned English coach Anthony Barry as his assistant.
Tuchel returns to English football after a successful stint at Chelsea, where he led the team to European and world championships. He has also been successful at the highest level in Germany and France, and in 2021, he was named UEFA and FIFA’s Coach of the Year for his achievements.
The FA’s decision to appoint Tuchel follows a thorough recruitment process that began in July, after England’s journey to the UEFA EURO 2024 final. FA CEO Mark Bullingham and men’s technical director John McDermott led the search, with Tuchel emerging as the preferred candidate. His contract was finalized on October 8, though the announcement was delayed to avoid disrupting the international team’s preparations.
Tuchel and Barry will officially start their roles on January 1, 2025, ahead of the qualification campaign for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the USA. Tuchel's coaching résumé includes multiple league titles in France and Germany, with his most recent success being with Bayern Munich in the 2022-23 season. He has also won several major trophies with Borussia Dortmund and Chelsea.
Anthony Barry, a UEFA Pro licence holder, has worked alongside Tuchel at both Chelsea and Bayern Munich, where they won four trophies together. Barry also brings significant international experience, having worked with Belgium and Portugal at major tournaments.
The duo will bring a small backroom team to St. George’s Park, with further coaching updates expected soon. In the meantime, interim head coach Lee Carsley will remain in charge through the conclusion of the UEFA Nations League group stage before resuming his role with the U21 team as they defend their UEFA U21 EURO title next summer.
FA CEO Mark Bullingham expressed excitement over Tuchel and Barry’s appointments, praising their expertise and commitment. He emphasized that the FA's focus is on giving the England team the best chance to win a major tournament, particularly the 2026 World Cup.
Tuchel, in his statement, expressed pride in leading the England team and his eagerness to work with the talented group of players. He also thanked the FA for the opportunity and trust. Barry, likewise, described working with the national team as the pinnacle for any English coach and said he was excited to join the project with Tuchel.
The pair are set to begin their journey with the team in January 2025.
