World Cup 2026: England boss Thomas Tuchel says Bukayo soccer fitness being carefully managed

Tuchel insists England are not favorites to win the World Cup in late July.

England have reached two consecutive European Championship finals and are tipped to go deep into the North American tournament.

“If you go to two Euro finals, and reach the semi-finals and quarter-finals of the World Cup, then you’re there – then you win it,” said the 52-year-old German.

“So maybe it takes a bit of luck or whatever. I strongly believe we’re there, but I also believe we’re not favorites because of history.

“We see ourselves as contenders and contenders. We want to go all the way but I don’t think we are heavy favourites.”

Tuchel continued: “Maybe it’s the wrong comparison, but if you go to Wimbledon and haven’t won it for 60 years, you’re not the favorite – but you can definitely win it. That’s what we want to do.

“We know what it takes, and it requires a calm mindset and focus on our steps. If we want to reach the top of the mountain, we have to start the journey step by step. Otherwise, we will be distracted.

“I have faith. We all have faith and a dream. But it comes with hard work, responsibility, commitment and discipline – and sometimes frustration. That’s all part of it. But we dare to dream, and that’s what matters.”

Meanwhile, Tuchel has expressed gratitude to the Football Association (FA) for allowing him to focus on football amid a growing number of political issues that have surrounded the build-up to the tournament.

FIFA has confirmed that Somali referee Omar Abdul Qadir will officiate Don’t attend this summer’s World Cup After he was barred from entering the US on Monday.

There has also been a Visa issues In recent days, participants have been linked to Iran.

“I’m grateful to the FA for separating me (politics and football) to talk about football and just talk about football because we need to focus,” added Tuchel.

“We can’t be distracted. It’s hard enough to focus without being distracted.”