Thomas Tuchel is navigating the challenges of international management for the first time as he leads England through their World Cup qualifying campaign.
The former Borussia Dortmund, Paris St Germain, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich boss is adapting to the unique demands of national team coaching, including managing squad rotation while maximising time with his players.
Tuchel’s tenure began with a confident 2-0 victory over Albania, and he is now preparing his squad for their second qualifier in four days, a trip to Latvia on Monday.
Despite his focus on England’s objectives, he acknowledges the concerns of club managers regarding player workload at this stage of the season.
With England aiming for another crucial three points, Tuchel must strike a balance between squad rotation and maintaining momentum.
His experience at top European clubs has prepared him for high-pressure situations, but international football presents a new challenge.
“I know that this window, this camp, is where the clubs play a very crucial time of the season,” Tuchel told BBC Radio 5 Live.
“They play for championships, they play for quarter-finals in the Champions League.
“We are very well aware of it but we have also our own goals, we have our own targets. The players are keen to play and it has to be like this.
“I always accepted it as a club manager. I never got involved in line-ups, I never pushed any national coach because I was hoping that my players get picked, I was also hoping that they are proud to play.
“Of course, you’re never happy if something happens. No-one can predict that there is no accident, but we have a World Cup qualifier and we’ll take responsible decisions.”
