Top 6 best tactics Thomas Tuchel could use to transform England’s game
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Expectations for the national squad have sharply changed since Thomas Tuchel was chosen as England's new manager. Particularly in view of past years in which the Three Lions have experienced both hopeful and disappointing performances, Tuchel—known for his tactical knowledge, inspiring ability, and creative ability—can offer a fresh perspective on England's plight.
Still on England
Despite having a lot of potential, the squad has repeatedly fallen short of scaling the final hurdle in international events. Perhaps the missing element in England's attempt to turn their potential into titles is Tuchel's unorthodox tactical style.
Based on Tuchel's expertise at elite European clubs including Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), and Borussia Dortmund, we will explore in this post the most successful tactics he could use to change England's game.
We will look at the possibilities presented by urgent plans, formations, and notable players who might flourish under his direction.
1. Three-at-the-back formation: defensive solidity with flexibility
One of the signature techniques Tuchel used during his time at Chelsea was the three-at-the-back framework, which was usually used in a 3-4-2-1 or 3-5-2 shape. Maintaining defensive stability in this system, the wingbacks could help contribute to the offence and press forward.
It turned essentially into a 5-2-3 when the team was defending and a 3-2-5 when they had the ball.
Why this is appropriate for the English national team:
- Defensive stability: England has regularly struggled to keep a consistent defensive shape, especially when playing against top-class opponents. With the central defenders forming a strong block, Tuchel's three-at-the-back arrangement would provide the team with still another layer of protection.
- Use of wingbacks: England's dynamic fullbacks consist of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Kieran Trippier, Ben Chilwell, and Reece James, all of whom are capable of a big impact in the attacking third when representing England. Under Tuchel's direction, these players might take on the position of wingbacks, allowing them to provide a broad spectrum of skills and help both defensively and offensively.
- Flexibility in transitions: One major benefit of this approach is its ability to enable flawless switches between defence and attack during transitions. The wingbacks bring pressure to the high point of the field while the ball is in their possession, thereby generating overloads on the flanks and stretching the opposition. They return to a defensive line of five when they are not in possession of the ball, therefore impeding the ability of their opponent to penetrate.
Principal performers:
- Right-sided centre defender Kyle Walker can offer the required pace and skill to traverse large distances.
- The central defenders could be John Stones and Harry Maguire; Stones can forward the ball from the defensive line. Maguire can also perform in this post.
- As offensive wingbacks would provide the attackers width and crossings, Ben Chilwell and Reece James would be great additions to the team.
2. High pressing and counter-pressing: Winning the ball early
Tuchel is an ardent proponent of aggressive pressure in the first phases, especially in the opponent's half of the field.
He regularly employed a high press approach, which involved using players like Mason Mount and Kai Havertz to push the defenders of the other team and cause turnovers in maybe dangerous circumstances while he was at Chelsea.
This strategy fits a modern game that stresses the need for both breaking with speed and recovering possession of the ball fast.
Why this is appropriate for the English national team:
- Energetic and mobile midfield: Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham, and Kalvin Phillips are among the mobile and energetic midfield players England have at hand. These players have the tactical awareness and aggression needed to carry out a hard-pressed strategy. Under Tuchel's direction, they should be able to carry out a high-pressing attack meant to choke their opponent and win the ball high up the pitch.
- Young, dynamic attackers: England possesses a set of young, vibrant players who can aggressively capitalise on errors. Among the forwards in this group are Marcus Rashford, Phil Foden, and Bukayo Saka. Once they have ball control, these players are adept at creating passing routes and launching quick counterattacks.
Principal performers:
- Jude Bellingham’s brilliance and agility would make him absolutely invaluable in this scenario, as from the middle of the pitch, he would lead the press.
- Under Tuchel's direction, Mason Mount has great potential to be used as a flexible offensive midfielder who can link up play and press high following his exceptional showing for Chelsea.
- Bukayo Saka and Phil Foden would press the opposition team's fullbacks and be ready to profit from any errors.
3. Tactical flexibility: In-game adjustments
One of Tuchel's most impressive qualities is his capacity to change his approach during a game.
He often changed his formation during games at Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain to take advantage of his opponent's flaws.
Whether it's in the change of defensive formations or the conversion from a 3-4-2-1 alignment, Tuchel's sides are well-known for their flexibility.
Why this is appropriate for the English national team:
- Adapting to different opponents: International football managers are regularly required to be able to adjust to a range of opponents. This is so because teams are challenged against a range of tactical systems. England has battled a lack of tactical flexibility in past contests, but, under Tuchel's direction, the team might become more flexible. When facing stronger teams, he might choose to adopt a more defensive approach; on the other hand, when facing weaker opponents, he might choose to adopt a more offensive approach.
- Squad depth: The depth of players in England's squad is such that they can meet a wide range of roles. Both Bukayo Saka and Trent Alexander-Arnold can cover a range of positions, so Tuchel can change the team's approach without compromising the players' quality. While Kobbie Mainoo might be used as a double pivot against high-pressing teams, a player like James Madison or Cole Palmer might be hired to offer inventiveness versus low-block opponents.
Principal performers:
- With Phil Foden's adaptability in the front line and middle of the pitch, Tuchel would be able to apply tactical changes without requiring significant personnel revisions. For the squad, this would be transformative.
- Declan Rice might also be very important in the transition between formations. He might be a lone holding midfielder in a more offensive approach or offer stability in a double pivot.
5. Emphasising ball control and possession play
Tuchel encouraged the use of quick, short passes and of ball possession dominance to control match tempo while he was coaching Paris Saint-Germain and Borussia Dortmund.
By capitalising on the skill set of England's midfielders and wingers, Tuchel could be able to use a possession-based approach that helps England regulate the flow of games instead of depending on counterattacks. England would have to have the ball if it were to achieve this.
Why this is appropriate for the English national team:
- Technical midfielders: Because of their technical skills and strategic vision, players like Phil Foden, Declan Rice, and Jude Bellingham fit a possession-based approach. Under Tuchel's leadership, they should control games with quick and accurate passes, therefore dominating the midfield.
- Patient buildup: England's inclination for too direct or predictable behaviour has made it a target of criticism on many occasions. If the team took a possession-based approach instead of trying to force the issue themselves, they would be able to exercise more caution and flesh out opportunities. This would especially be beneficial when facing teams meant to frustrate and hold their respective positions.
Principal performers:
- Declan Rice could be the fulcrum, recycling possession and protecting the defenders in a fashion evocative of how Tuchel used Jorginho at Chelsea.
- Phil Foden would be among the most important players in this system because of his close control and vision, which would help him beat compact defences.
6. Managing star players: Maintaining squad harmony
Among the well-known sportsmen Tuchel managed at Paris Saint-Germain were where three of football's wealthiest players: Neymar, Kylian Mbappé, and Lionel Messi; hence, he has a proven track record of supervising big-name players. This experience will help him as he will be leading a squad including rising players like Foden, Saka, Palmer and Bellingham as well as established stars like Raheem Sterling and Harry Kane.
Why this is appropriate for the English national team:
- Balancing youth and experience: The England team consists of interesting freshmen as well as seasoned internationals, and for this reason, England might be a suitable choice. Tuchel will have to be able to properly integrate younger players into the team and make sure the more seasoned players are happy to maintain harmony within the team. Tuchel's personal skills will be one of the most important elements to ensuring that every participant feels appreciated and understands their role in the team.
- Optimising Harry Kane's performance: Harry Kane, the team's captain and top scorer, will determine England's success or lack. Whether it's as a target man, a false-nine, or a deeper facilitator, Tuchel can create a system that maximises Kane's talents in the same manner he used Romelu Lukaku at Chelsea.
Principal performers:
- Harry Kane could be used in many roles depending on the system; still, his leadership and goal-scoring ability will always be crucial.
- A more ordered attacking approach would help Raheem Sterling and Anthony Gordon to concentrate on using the area behind the defence.
Last words
With Thomas Tuchel as appointed manager, the England national team enters an interesting new chapter. The squad might just need the German's tactical adaptability, high-pressing style, and ability to fit a range of circumstances to realise its full potential and win medals.
Tuchel may add a new viewpoint to England's game with his strong three-at-the-back style, which promotes possession-based play and high pressure. Thanks to his know-how in tactical adaptation and in-game corrections, England will have the advantage at critical points, especially in the knockout phases.
Furthermore, his focus on defensive structure and set pieces can help England overcome some of their present problems in close quarters play. Moreover, his managerial skills guarantee consistency among a gifted team.
Under Tuchel's direction, Harry Kane, Phil Foden, and Jude Bellingham are among those who could potentially achieve hitherto unheard-of degrees of success—especially considering the German strategist's ability to use individual players' abilities inside his squads.
Tuchel's success at the top level of professional football confirms his reputation as a manager ready to guide England towards glory.
For the Three Lions, this may signal the start of a new chapter since they could win major tournaments, including the European Championship and the World Cup.
Should he be able to effectively implement his tactical approach and mix England's youth and experience, this might signal the start of a new era . England's tactical change may be the last element in their much-awaited search for a major championship.