Tuchel: 'I love being England coach'

England continue their FIFA World Cup 2026 bid as they approach their final Group L match against Panama with full focus on securing top spot.

After an impressive 4-2 victory over Croatia in their opening game, England dominated their second match against Ghana but were held to a goalless draw.

With four points, they are the firm favourites to reach the Round of 32 as group winners ahead of Saturday’s match against Panama in New Jersey.

It's the Three Lions’ first major tournament under Thomas Tuchel’s management - and the first international job the former Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich coach has held - and he admits he's loving every moment of it.

Tuchel’s ‘connection’ to English football

“I love being the England coach," he said. "I was never shy about that, I have huge affection for the country and the people in the country, and for the way they approach football and sports in general. 

“I fell in love with the country and the Premier League. I wanted to be there, it was a dream to work there.

“Now to have a chance to work with these kind of players is an amazing opportunity. I am very grateful for it.

“No one wants it more than me. I feel a connection to the players, I feel a connection to the country. And that was the most important thing.”

Tuchel provides squad update

Tuchel has confirmed that Reece James has not travelled to New Jersey after sustaining an injury, but could be fit to return for the round of 32, should England advance.

“We have hopes for the next match; it can be a tight one, but hopes are still alive,” he said. “The remainder of the squad is fit and raring to go.”

Tuchel also gave a positive update on Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson, who he revealed both felt “minor issues” following the Ghana game.

“Elliot and Declan are both available,” revealed Tuchel.

“Elliot and Declan were in full training today. They both had minor issues after the match [against Ghana] but had enough time to recover. Everyone except Reece James is available and ready to go.

Tuchel also gave an update on Bukayo Saka’s situation, after the Arsenal winger came off the bench against Croatia and Ghana after struggling with an Achilles injury heading into the tournament.

“He’s now, for many days, been fully free of pain, fully free of discomfort and is ready to go and ready to start,” added Tuchel.

“We have a full choice tomorrow.”

You can watch the press conference in full via the England app right here.