Thomas Tuchel extends England contract to Euro 2028, citing ‘Amazing’ squad and strong FA backing

Thomas Tuchel says his decision to extend his tenure as England manager until Euro 2028 was driven primarily by the quality of players at his disposal and a growing sense of connection to the national team, Sport360NG reports.

The 52-year-old German, who assumed control in January 2025, had initially agreed to remain in charge only through this summer’s World Cup. However, after overseeing a flawless qualifying campaign, eight wins from eight, Tuchel opted to commit to a longer-term project that will now include the 2028 European Championship.

“The main reasons I took the job in the first place were the players,” Tuchel said. “I wanted to work with this amazing group and coach characters I already knew from the Premier League.

“I love the group, I love the personalities and I love being in charge. The passion in the country, especially during the Euros at Wembley, made it feel like more than just a job. It became something special.”

From Short-Term Plan to Long-Term Vision

Tuchel’s initial contract reflected caution, with the former Borussia Dortmund, Paris Saint-Germain, Chelsea and Bayern Munich boss admitting he was unsure how he would adapt to international management.

Having never previously coached a national side, Tuchel insisted on an 18-month deal to assess whether the role suited him.

“We didn’t know exactly what to expect,” he explained. “That’s why I pushed for a shorter contract at first. I needed to feel committed and connected, that’s essential if I’m to be the best version of myself.”

He revealed that a busy spell during the autumn international window strengthened his bond with the squad and solidified his desire to continue.

“From September to November, during that condensed period, I felt the strongest connection to the players and the job. From that moment, I was fully committed to going further.”

Home Euros Provide Added Incentive

The opportunity to lead England into a home European Championship in 2028, with the tournament set to be staged across England, Wales, Scotland and the Republic of Ireland, also played a decisive role in his extension.

“We had an excellent qualifying campaign and both sides wanted to complete the cycle,” Tuchel said. “We want to commit to a full World Cup and Euros cycle. The FA wanted it, I wanted it, it was straightforward.”

The new agreement also brings stability ahead of the World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the United States, ending speculation that had linked Tuchel with a return to club football, including reported interest from Manchester United.

“It wasn’t done simply for clarity before the World Cup,” he added. “But it’s certainly a positive side effect. There are no more rumours, no distractions. I’ve always been fully committed to extending, and so were the FA.

“There may be a time when I return to club football, but not in the next two-and-a-half years.”

Selection Decisions Loom

With his own future settled, Tuchel now turns his focus to squad selection and the heightened expectations that accompany major tournaments.

Several players have re-emerged as contenders, including Manchester United trio Kobbie Mainoo, Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw, none of whom have featured under Tuchel so far.

Mainoo, who started the Euro 2024 final, has revived his club form following a managerial change at Old Trafford, while Shaw and Maguire have impressed in recent weeks. Tuchel was present to observe the trio during United’s 1-1 draw at West Ham on Tuesday.

“Mainoo is absolutely back in the frame,” Tuchel confirmed. “It’s fantastic to see him back on the pitch. He’s a huge talent and already has tournament experience with England.

“Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire are also back in the picture. Some players are benefiting from a system that aligns more closely with our structure. It creates healthy competition.”

With momentum building and unity restored, Tuchel’s extended reign now carries renewed ambition — not only for the upcoming World Cup, but for a home European Championship that could define a generation.