Thomas Tuchel has been appointed as the new head coach of the England men’s national football team, the English Football Association (FA) announced on Wednesday.
The 51-year-old German has signed an 18-month contract and will begin his role on January 1, 2025.
Tuchel, who previously managed Chelsea and Bayern Munich, will be assisted by Anthony Barry, a coach who worked with him at both clubs.
He takes over from Gareth Southgate, who stepped down after leading the team through the Euro 2024.
“I am very proud to have been given the honour of leading the England team,” Tuchel said in his first statement after the appointment. “I have long felt a personal connection to the game in this country, and it has given me some incredible moments already. To have the chance to represent England is a huge privilege, and the opportunity to work with this special and talented group of players is very exciting.”
Tuchel expressed his excitement about the new challenge and his commitment to making England successful, thanking the FA for their trust.
He also acknowledged his assistant, Barry, and the FA officials who facilitated his appointment.
Until Tuchel assumes his duties, interim coach Lee Carsley will continue to lead the team for England’s November Nations League fixtures.
Tuchel becomes the third foreign manager to lead the England national team, following in the footsteps of Fabio Capello and Sven-Goran Eriksson.
His previous coaching career includes leading Chelsea to a Champions League victory in 2021, as well as winning two French league titles with Paris Saint-Germain. He was last in charge at Bayern Munich, but parted ways with the club after a trophyless season.
