England's World Cup Exit: A Tactical Misstep
England's World Cup campaign ended in disappointment, with a 2-1 defeat to Argentina in the final minutes of the match. The loss means the Three Lions will not be competing in the World Cup final.
The Kane Conundrum
Harry Kane's form has been a concern for England, with the striker's aging body beginning to show signs of wear. At 33, Kane is still scoring goals, but his time is limited, and Tuchel must find a solution to the problem. The captain has already stated that it's 'too early' to talk about playing at the finals in 2030, but lifting a trophy on home soil could yet be the end of his international career.
Finding Alternatives
Phil Foden was given a chance in a false nine role against Uruguay in March, but he underperformed to such an extent that he missed out on the World Cup. Tuchel took two other central strikers, Ollie Watkins and Ivan Toney, but they were limited to one minor substitute appearance each. Watkins, the top-scoring English striker in the Premier League last season with 16 goals, played just six minutes when he replaced Kane against Panama.
The Search for New Blood
Dominic Solanke (28) and Dominic Calvert-Lewin (29) are the only other strikers to be used by England in the last 12 months. Watkins, Leeds' Calvert-Lewin (14) and the 35-year-old Brighton attacker Danny Welbeck (13) were the only English strikers to hit double figures in the Premier League last season. Age is not on the side of any of these players, and it is unclear where the new blood is coming from.
Next Up
England will face Spain at Wembley on 26 September in the Nations League. The Three Lions will also face Czechia and old foes Croatia in the competition. Then next year comes the qualifying programme for Euro 2028, which England will take part in despite being co-hosts. Tuchel, his England contract already extended, must now find a way to rebuild his squad and his ethos.
