World Cup 2026: England squad discuss Tuchel’s tactics against Argentina

Players saw their families and loved ones after the loss in Atlanta, and the way the team was set up in those moments after going forward is a known contributor to their downfall.

BBC Sport knows of at least three senior players who have privately complained about the team’s conduct in the final stages.

There is a recognition that it is natural for players to go down the field when defending a lead.

But equally, it is believed that Tuchel’s tactical shifts and substitutions have exacerbated their defensive retreat, with certain players agreeing.

Some players believe the team should at least have more permission to press the ball in the closing stages to at least try and keep Argentina away from the goal – even to give defenders some respite.

But instead, some players felt the team was simply clearing their lines and reorganizing their formation in defense – a tactic some disagreed with.

Some players certainly feel they can be braver and bolder in those closing stages – not necessarily going hell for leather for a second, but to strike a balance between withstanding Argentina’s pressure but giving their opponents something to worry about in attack.

“They came in too early,” a source said.

Of course, it is not uncommon for players to disagree with their coach’s approach.

Professional soccer players are used to following instructions even if they disagree with the directions.

But some of the consternation caused by how England were ordered to finish the game paints an interesting picture of the rest of Tuchel’s reign.

Tuchel was appointed in the belief that he was the man to finally get England over the line.

Gareth Southgate has reached one World Cup semi-final and two European Championship finals during his reign – but Tuchel’s tactical acumen is considered to be what it takes to turn England from underdogs to winners.

But comments from some players that Tuchel made a mistake in Atalanta will leave the player-manager in flux heading into a European Championship qualifying campaign.

Tuchel continues to receive the full support of Football Association chief executive Mark Bullingham, but the criticism the German faced after the defeat to Argentina failed to register.

As usual, the FA will assess England’s performance at the tournament when they return home after Saturday’s bronze medal clash with France.

While England reaching the semi-finals is still regarded as an achievement in the FA, there is clearly a lot to unpack about the circumstances behind their defeat to Argentina.