The Football Association (FA) has reportedly reached a decision on the future of England manager Thomas Tuchel ahead of the Three Lions' FIFA World Cup Round of 16 showdown against Mexico.
Fresh from a nervy victory over DR Congo, England now face co-hosts Mexico at the iconic Azteca Stadium in the early hours of Monday. While England would ordinarily be considered favourites, Mexico's formidable home record and the high-altitude conditions in Mexico City are expected to provide El Tri with a significant advantage.
Tuchel's side has yet to hit top form at the tournament and came dangerously close to a shock elimination against DR Congo before captain Harry Kane rescued England with the decisive goal just 15 minutes from time.
The 52-year-old was appointed as Sir Gareth Southgate's successor with the clear mandate of delivering World Cup glory, making his future a growing topic of discussion as the knockout stages unfold.
Although Tuchel signed a contract extension before the tournament that keeps him in charge through Euro 2028—co-hosted by England, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland—his deal reportedly includes performance-related clauses that allow the FA to terminate his contract without paying substantial compensation if certain objectives are not met.
An exit in the Round of 16 would mark England's worst performance at a major tournament since Roy Hodgson's side suffered a shock defeat to Iceland at Euro 2016.
However, according to The Telegraph, Tuchel would almost certainly have been dismissed had England lost to DR Congo. Instead, the FA is now expected to retain the German coach regardless of the outcome against Mexico.
The report adds that the governing body will assess Tuchel's overall performance once England's World Cup campaign concludes, but, barring a disastrous collapse, there is no intention to part ways with him.
If England overcome Mexico, they are likely to face a daunting route to the title, with potential clashes against Brazil, Argentina and France. Even defeat against any of those footballing heavyweights is not expected to alter the FA's stance.
The decision is also said to have been influenced by the positive atmosphere within the England camp, despite inconsistent performances and Tuchel's demanding management style.
Tuchel, who guided Chelsea to the UEFA Champions League title in 2021, had been linked with a return to club football after the World Cup. However, with most of Europe's top managerial vacancies already filled, he is expected to remain focused on leading England into the next phase of their long-term project.
