According to German media outlet Kicker, coach Tuchel is once again under scrutiny as England prepares to face World Cup champions Spain at Wembley. In addition to ongoing criticism regarding his in-game adjustments during the World Cup semi-final loss to Argentina, his recent comments about "99.9% of fans not discussing substitutions and tactics" have drawn fire from the British media.

At this summer's World Cup, England was just one step away from the final, but the team suffered a comeback defeat against Argentina in the semi-finals, missing out on a chance to compete for the title against Spain. England's bid for a World Cup title failed once again, having not won since the 1966 home World Cup.

Many have attributed part of the semi-final exit to Tuchel. England was leading 1-0 at the time, but Tuchel opted for defensive substitutions. As Argentina ramped up pressure, England's ability to relieve pressure in attack diminished further, ultimately leading to a two-goal comeback by their opponents.

When asked about his substitutions at the time, Tuchel quipped, "Of course, I got an earful for my substitutions." He immediately added, "Just kidding."

However, the British media was not amused by another statement Tuchel made afterward.

Tuchel stated, "99.9% of fans don't discuss substitutions or tactical matters." In his view, fans are more likely to talk about where they watched the match against Mexico and how nerve-wracking the game against DR Congo was.

"That's what we create, and that's how it should be."

The Daily Telegraph responded sarcastically to this. A columnist wrote, "So, for the past two months, those of us who have been in contact have probably just happened to be that 0.1% of England fans with different opinions."

The columnist further criticized, "The whole thing felt very rehearsed and out of touch. However, perhaps Tuchel's unrealistic perception of the situation is because he spent too much time with the FA's management. It turns out they had already assured him of his position even before the victory over Mexico."

Regarding the FA's early decision to continue trusting him, Tuchel described it as "a very beautiful moment as a coach," as it made him feel more liberated.

Tuchel stated that the England team has already reviewed and analyzed the World Cup: "This process was sometimes painful, sometimes emotional, and sometimes very beautiful, because people openly said what truly affected them, and also talked about certain scenes and moments. Perhaps these things weren't as important to you personally, but they were very significant to them."

However, he emphasized that the team's criticism and discussions about certain key issues would still "remain internal, behind closed doors."

After the World Cup, Tuchel does not believe England needs a complete rebuild. He said, "We are continuing to build on a solid and very valuable foundation."

Next, Tuchel will lead England in the Nations League and set his sights on the 2028 home European Championship, hoping to once again challenge for the title England has long awaited.

Meanwhile, Tuchel also indirectly admitted that there were aspects of his in-game management during the World Cup semi-final against Argentina that warranted reflection.

He said, "Perhaps I have to compromise on my pursuit of control over the game, to accept the chaos in the match — perhaps that's what will bring out the best."

However, Tuchel concluded by emphasizing, "But that's just a 'perhaps.'"

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