Harry Kane has backed Thomas Tuchel to learn from England's World Cup semi-final defeat against Argentina and believes the team must use the forthcoming Nations League campaign to gain experience against top-tier opposition. The England captain spoke after the Three Lions secured third place with a thrilling 6-4 victory over France on Saturday, their best finish at a World Cup on foreign soil.
Tuchel, who signed a contract extension before the tournament, faced heavy criticism for his tactical approach in the semi-final against Argentina. The German coach opted to switch to a back five in an attempt to defend a 1-0 lead, a decision that ultimately backfired as Argentina fought back to win. Kane, however, defended his manager, stating that the experience of managing England at a major tournament is unique and that Tuchel will benefit from it.
«Thomas has created the best England group for togetherness that I have been a part of,» Kane said. «He will learn a lot from this tournament, especially from the pressures and expectations that come with managing England. The Nations League will be important for us to test ourselves against the best teams and build on what we have achieved here.»
The third-place finish marks England's best result at a World Cup since winning the tournament in 1966, and the team returned home to a warm welcome in Birmingham after a seven-week journey. Despite the disappointment of falling short in the semi-finals, Kane emphasised the importance of using the Nations League as a platform to develop and prepare for future challenges, including the 2028 European Championship.
Kane also addressed the need for the squad to stop talking about winning silverware and focus on delivering results. «We have spoken for years about winning trophies, but now we need to actually do it,» he said. «The Nations League gives us a chance to build momentum and show that we can compete with the best when it matters.»
Bukayo Saka, who scored a hat-trick in the third-place play-off, expressed his desire to have played more minutes during the tournament and told Tuchel he is fully fit and ready for future challenges. Saka's performance against France was a bright spot in an otherwise mixed campaign for the Three Lions, and his form will be crucial as England look to build towards the 2028 European Championship on home soil.
Tuchel's tactics and squad management have been scrutinised throughout the tournament, with some questioning his decision to leave Saka on the bench in the semi-final. However, the German coach has defended his choices, citing the need to adapt to the specific challenges posed by Argentina. The Nations League will provide an opportunity for Tuchel to refine his approach and integrate younger players into the squad.
England's third-place finish has been widely praised as a step forward, but the team remains aware that the ultimate goal of winning a major tournament remains elusive. With the 2028 European Championship on the horizon, the Nations League campaign will be a key testing ground for Tuchel and his players as they seek to build a team capable of ending England's long wait for silverware.
