Tuchel’s big game and Bellingham’s bomb. How did a German piss off “half of England” for his philosophy?

Scenes of Germany’s Thomas Tuchel announcing England’s place in the 2026 World Cup finals have turned into something of a “minefield” that has sparked fury from sports street and the British press. About 20 days before the start of the World Cup, the German philosopher chose to raise the slogan of “perseverance and tactical dictatorship”, sacrificing big names that shook the foundations of English football.

When Tuchel left out Chelsea star and Player of the Year winner Cole Palmer at the recent Club World Cup in the United States of America, and then included Trent Alexander-Arnold and Phil Foden, he appeared to be declaring war on “folk logic” in football, justifying it with strict philosophy devoid of emotion.