Tuchel’s England turns style into substance, while Croatia faces a Modric dilemma

England’s 4-2 win over Croatia was presented as the clearest sign yet that Thomas Tuchel has transformed the national team. A month ago, British media had branded the German coach “the most hated man in Britain,” but after the tournament’s best match so far, England are being praised for a direct, attractive style that has replaced Gareth Southgate’s cautious football. Harry Kane, Declan Rice and especially Jude Bellingham, back from two difficult years in Madrid, stood out.

The article argues that Tuchel’s outsider status is part of his strength. Unlike English managers, he is not shaped by the tabloid press or public pressure, and he is willing to leave big names such as Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, Harry Maguire or Trent Alexander-Arnold out of the squad if he thinks it is best. That blunt approach is only acceptable if results follow, and against a strong Croatia side England delivered, outshooting them 21 to 8 and winning despite Dominik Livakovic keeping the margin down.

Tuchel’s methods are described as meticulous and tactical rather than flamboyant, though they rely on fitness, set-piece work and squad depth. He also drew attention for complaining about photographers blocking his view during the anthem, prompting FIFA to issue a special instruction separating coaching staffs from cameras. His refusal to sing the anthem has also bothered sections of the British public, but he had already hinted he might earn that right only if England reach the final.

The second-half turnaround also came from a calmer message at halftime. England had twice led and then entered the break at 2-2, but Tuchel told the players, “Even if we lose, it will not change my opinion about the 17 days we have spent together, but let us lose our way.” England emerged more composed and dominant, and tears from Kane and Bellingham at the end reflected the pressure Tuchel has helped lift. The other featured World Cup previews were Portugal against Uzbekistan, with Roberto Martinez defending Cristiano Ronaldo, Panama against Croatia, where Zlatko Dalic faces a Luka Modric benching question, and Colombia against DR Congo.