World Cup 2026 winners Spain beat England 3-2 at Wembley Stadium on Saturday in a thrilling Nations League encounter.
Lamine Yamal, Álex Baena and Mikel Oyarzabal struck for Luis de la Fuente’s side, while Anthony Gordon and Harry Kane netted for the hosts, who combined attacking flair with defensive frailties throughout.
Three Lions boss Thomas Tuchel has plenty to build on as a result – but the former Chelsea and PSG manager’s immediate concern is greater consistency.
Tuchel favours continuity over rotation
England are facing a tough Nations League schedule that involves four matches in just 11 days, and Tuchel has admitted that his desire for continuity over rotation may not be feasible.
“I would love not to rotate, to be honest,” he told Sky Sports.
“I am not sure if it’s possible.”
“My ideal scenario would be to go again and go again and go again, with six or seven players minimum that start again that we trust.
“To put the responsibility on them and let them feel the trust.
“But I am not sure it’s possible – let’s see.”
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Impossible to please club coaches
Regardless of the workload, however, Tuchel has made it clear that he is not aiming to please club-level coaches when it comes to his use of their players.
The German stated: “I never take calls from Premier League managers.
“I cannot manage the players – it is just impossible.
“And I knew, as a club coach on the other side, we had this example many times.
“If I called a coach in Brazil or Argentina, they would not know what I’m talking about and the players would not know what I am talking about.
“So, why would I start doing this and maybe give the players the impression that it is maybe OK to take a step back or maybe to rest one match?
“Why would I? I would never.
“We want to win the next match.”
England’s upcoming Nations League fixtures
Tuesday September 29 – vs Czechia, Fortuna Arena (kick-off 7:45pm UK time)
Saturday October 3 – vs Croatia, Stadion HNK Rijeka (kick-off 5pm)
Tuesday October 6 – vs Czechia, Wembley Stadium (kick-off 7:45pm)
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