Ahead of the World Cup semi-final against Argentina, England manager Thomas Tuchel gave an exclusive interview to ITV Sports.
Reporter: It is incredible to reach this stage. England versus Argentina, a historic rivalry spanning generations: Lattin and Ramsey, Maradona and Shilton, David Beckham and Diego Simeone, and now Harry Kane against Lionel Messi, Jude Bellingham against Julián Álvarez. Are you ready?
Thomas Tuchel: We will be ready. Not today, but fully prepared in two days’ time. I can feel the excitement and enthusiasm inside the squad from every player. We are ready to step onto the pitch.
Reporter: How would you define the essence of this iconic England vs Argentina fixture?
Thomas Tuchel: It is an absolutely massive game, truly monumental. As you mentioned, both are elite football nations with legendary histories. Everyone recognises these two iconic jerseys, their star players, and the huge significance of this encounter.
Reporter: England has endured tough knockout-stage tests, while Argentina has repeatedly teetered on the brink of elimination. What is the strongest quality of Lionel Scaloni’s side?
Thomas Tuchel: Both teams have demonstrated incredible resilience. We have shown toughness, team spirit and the winning mentality required for deep tournament runs, and so have they. We are in a very similar position. Whichever team advances will write another story of overcoming adversity, and we hope it will be us.
Reporter: Many players from Argentina’s 2022 World Cup-winning squad remain in the team. Is this current Argentina side stronger? How do you compare the two teams?
Thomas Tuchel: They are undoubtedly more mature and experienced. The team has remained largely unchanged over the past four years, with the same head coach and core lineup intact. They are an extremely tough opponent with strong mental fortitude and a proven winning mindset. Above all, they possess unshakable belief, having lifted the World Cup four years ago. That is the formidable challenge we are about to face.
Reporter: Lionel Messi has represented Argentina for 21 years with 205 caps, and this will mark his first-ever clash against England. Where does he rank on your list of all-time greatest players?
Thomas Tuchel: Extremely high. I tend not to rank players, as there are countless legends who excel in different positions and eras. Yet Messi undoubtedly sits at the very top of any all-time list, simply because he is extraordinary.
Reporter: At 39, he still leads the race for the World Cup Golden Boot. What does that tell you?
Thomas Tuchel: It proves we are witnessing something truly exceptional and one-of-a-kind.
Reporter: Messi has adapted his playing style drastically. He spends 63 percent of match time walking in this World Cup. What is the real challenge of facing this version of Messi?
Thomas Tuchel: He can explode into action out of nowhere. He is a silent killer who can decide matches even while walking. You can never switch off against him, never underestimate his sudden bursts of brilliance, nor overlook Argentina’s collective willingness to sacrifice for him. They conserve his energy for crucial moments, letting him preserve creativity and stamina for the decisive 40 percent of the game. He still delivers elite-level performances, and we must find a way to contain and overcome him. We are not here to congratulate him or build a throne for him. We are here to defeat him and win this game.
Reporter: Unlocking players’ best form is a manager’s core duty. What have you done to get the best out of Jude Bellingham?
Thomas Tuchel: I am not sure. It is working so far, and we are helping him reach his peak, but this is never solely down to the coach — it first and foremost comes from the player himself. Before highlighting individual brilliance, we must stress this is a team effort. We need every squad member to win this match. This is a team tournament, and the entire staff and squad strive to bring match-deciding players to their best form. Jude has been an absolutely pivotal player for us throughout this World Cup campaign.
Reporter: Both teams have faced favourable and controversial referee decisions in this tournament. Does this game demand greater discipline and in-game management than ever before?
Thomas Tuchel: Absolutely, but every high-stakes game requires that. I expect another rollercoaster encounter. Both sides play with intense emotion and immense mental energy, so I do not anticipate a completely calm or clean game. I would be surprised if the match plays out smoothly without fluctuations.
Reporter: You once said England can perform even better. How much confidence does the team’s fighting spirit on the way to the semi-finals give you?
Thomas Tuchel: It gives me full confidence that this team is ready to give everything and never surrenders on the pitch. Their refusal to accept defeat is our most valuable asset. This embodies the relentless spirit of the Premier League, and I am extremely satisfied with that. This is exactly what we need to beat Argentina in the World Cup semi-final.
Reporter: Messi is 39, while Harry Kane will be 37 by the next World Cup. Do you think Kane can feature in another World Cup?
Thomas Tuchel: That is the wrong question to ask right now. I have no idea. All he needs to focus on now is delivering his best in the next two upcoming matches.
Reporter: We ask this because if Kane features in this semi-final, he will set a new record as England’s most capped outfield player in history.
Thomas Tuchel: He is highly likely to start and break that remarkable record, which is an incredible achievement. But football does not operate on four-year cycles. He only needs to focus on being ready in three days, and again four days after that. His future depends on his fitness, ability and hunger by then. Ultimately, he alone will define his career’s next chapter.
