Loss to Argentina Sparks Criticism in England. Rooney Defends Tuchel, Points to Replacement

Tuchel is facing criticism after England's 2-1 semi-final loss to Argentina at the World Cup, but according to DPA, he still has the backing of the English Football Association (FA) leadership. The FA extended his contract until 2028 in February.

“I don't see anyone else at the moment, unless we could get Pep Guardiola. If Pep is available, then maybe we should go for him. He's a world-class coach, and the best coaches learn from their mistakes and improve.

If we sack Tuchel, who do we bring in? I don't think there's anyone better than Thomas Tuchel right now, apart from Guardiola. But for me, it's important that he hadn't experienced a World Cup before. We had the same situation with Fabio Capello. The World Cup is different, and you have to experience its atmosphere. Now he has,” Rooney said about Tuchel on his podcast.

Guardiola left the Manchester City dugout in May 2026 after ten successful years. During his tenure, he won numerous domestic and international trophies with the club. He was succeeded as head coach by Italian Enzo Maresca.