Harry Kane Backs Thomas Tuchel, Doesn't Rule Out 2030 World Cup Appearance

England captain Harry Kane has publicly backed Thomas Tuchel as the national team's manager. The German coach faced criticism for his defensive tactics, which led to a comeback defeat in the World Cup semi-final against Argentina. Meanwhile, Kane still hopes to be part of England's squad for the 2030 World Cup.

The Three Lions' captain stood by his manager despite widespread dissatisfaction with his tactical decisions in the loss to Argentina.

Tuchel's decision to try and protect a slender 1-0 lead by switching to a five-man defense after the final hydration break sparked widespread discontent, as the team failed to withstand Argentina's sustained pressure.

The sense of disappointment was amplified after England won a 10-goal thriller in the third-place playoff against France. This secured the team their highest World Cup finish since 1966 and their best performance on foreign soil.

Immediately after last Wednesday's defeat, Kane admitted that the decision to defend the lead had backfired. However, he has now publicly supported Tuchel, believing the coach will learn from the elimination and successfully lead the team to Euro 2028.

"He's a massive reason why we're here," Kane told Sky Sports. "He's a massive reason why we've had our best finish in 60 years. There are a lot of 'what ifs' from that night, and it's going to take time to process, for him as well. Just because he's one of the best coaches in the world doesn't mean he's going to get every decision right. The same goes for players on the pitch. We all make mistakes, and we have to try and improve.

Fans have every right to be angry. I think Thomas knew better than anyone when he took the job that the pressure and stakes would be high. He almost took us all the way, but it wasn't to be. People will try to point fingers. I think he needs time to process everything. It's been a crazy journey. A lot of highs and one big low. It's also his first tournament. He's learning from the players, from the pressure, from the environment, from the travel. This will only make us better in the future."

Despite an upcoming European Championship, Kane hopes to play a role in the 2030 World Cup as well.

The Bayern Munich striker will be 36 when the tournament kicks off in four years, but after breaking the record for most goals by an Englishman at a World Cup this summer, the captain isn't ruling out the possibility of still being part of the squad.

"I've just had the best season of my career, and I'm turning 33. It's impossible to say, four years is a very long time. I've said it before, playing for England is my biggest ambition. I feel better than ever. We'll see. I never put limits on myself for these things. As long as I'm performing the way I am, I'll represent England. But four years is a long time. I'm not getting carried away."