Butt’s assessment of England’s World Cup exit
Following England‘s elimination from the World Cup semi-finals by Argentina, former England international Nicky Butt has strongly advocated for the immediate removal of manager Thomas Tuchel. Butt’s comments came after England, despite taking a 1-0 lead through Anthony Gordon, conceded two late goals to Enzo Fernandez and Lautaro Martinez, ending their hopes of reaching the final.
Butt expressed his view to Paddy Power, stating there was “no way” Tuchel could remain in his position. He further suggested that if Tuchel were to stay, John McDermott should also be dismissed. Butt highlighted that Tuchel does not possess the national affection associated with figures like Sir Bobby Robson or Kevin Keegan.
The criticism from Butt centres on what he perceives as a cautious approach from Tuchel on the international stage, particularly given the talent within the England squad. He argued that the former Chelsea and Bayern Munich boss failed to inspire and played into the opposition’s hands during the crucial semi-final match. Butt specifically pointed to Tuchel’s decision to bring on Ezri Konsa, Nico O’Reilly, and Dan Burn, which he felt backfired.
Butt described Tuchel’s tactics as “crazy negative football” in a semi-final against a team he considered beatable. He also suggested that Tuchel, despite being an “unbelievable club manager,” would likely want to leave the role, believing the manager would be thinking, “pay up, I’m out of here.”
Potential successors and future strategy
With the discussion now shifting to who should lead the national team, Butt identified Eddie Howe and Pep Guardiola as leading candidates. He noted that while Guardiola, who recently concluded a 10-year tenure at Manchester City, might not be available immediately due to his stated need for a rest, Howe has successfully transformed Newcastle since 2021, guiding them to Champions League campaigns and a League Cup triumph.
Butt stated that if the timing were different, he would “definitely be going for Pep Guardiola.” However, he acknowledged the impracticality of Guardiola immediately taking on another role after leaving Manchester City. He added that Eddie Howe “would be brilliant” and expressed his desire for Howe to take the position.
Beyond Howe and Guardiola, Butt also mentioned Mauricio Pochettino as a strong contender. He highlighted Pochettino’s existing relationship with FA technical director John McDermott, stemming from their time together at Tottenham. Butt, who observed their rapport while working within the Manchester United academy system, believes this connection could make Pochettino a viable option, especially after he guided the USMNT to the round of 16 in the recent World Cup.
Butt acknowledged Pochettino as a “very, very good manager” who plays “good football everywhere he goes.” However, he also reflected on how managers seem to change when they enter the England dynamic, a phenomenon he cannot explain.
Building for the future
Butt also suggested a long-term strategy for England, advocating for a focus on building a young team for the 2030 World Cup, even if it means sacrificing the next Euros in 2028. He proposed immediately calling up young talents like Arsenal midfielder Max Dowman, who made 13 appearances for Mikel Arteta‘s team last season.
Butt believes Dowman, who scored a goal against Everton in March, should play in “every international break from now on” to develop the right mentality for winning major trophies. He argued that England’s current mentality, focused on player development rather than creating winners, needs to change. Butt’s former Manchester United and England teammate Paul Scholes also commented that Max Dowman “will definitely be around for the next tournament.”
Tuchel, however, defended his tactics, attributing the semi-final defeat to what he described as English football’s “DNA.” He stated that the team became too passive and lacked physicality, losing momentum after Argentina’s first goal. Tuchel suggested that ball possession, which he believes is not in England’s DNA, plays a crucial role in controlling games.
Argentina, the reigning champions, are set to face Spain in the World Cup final on Sunday.
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Source: goal.com
Lucy Ashby is a Sports Reporter at NewsGB. She reported on the county circuit and Team GB. She focuses on tennis, cricket and athletics and is known for clear, deadline-driven reporting. She holds a degree in Sport and Media from Durham University and completed an NCTJ diploma. Now based in Durham, she plays club cricket and follows distance running. “The best sport reporting starts by listening.”
