A former German national player, Thomas Hitzlsperger, views the new English national team coach, Thomas Tuchel, as facing a challenging task. “Tuchel must quickly prove that he can tap into the existing potential” he told the “Kicker”.
There will always be people who would rather see a national team in the care of a compatriot. “If Tuchel wins the title, the discussions about nationality will naturally subside.” Already, the 2021 Champions League win with Chelsea is helping people to accept and better understand the new coach, Hitzlsperger believes. “He has credibly demonstrated that he likes the English and their football culture” he said, referring to the success.
With a glance at the English media, the ex-player, who also had a career in the Premier League, expects ridicule against Tuchel. In particular, he expects an “agenda” against the coach from the “Daily Mail”, as he is not English.
Hitzlsperger also sees potential for Tuchel. “There are so many talents there. I think, if he can bring these to the front, to enthuse the fans with an offensive playing style, that would be the first order of business. His predecessor, Gareth Southgate, has changed a lot for the better, but his players often played with the handbrake on. Tuchel must bring this offensive power to the fore.