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The former Chelsea, PSG, and Bayern Munich boss officially kicked off his role on January 1, 2025, taking over from Gareth Southgate after an impressive eight-year run.
His first challenge? Tackling the opening two matches of England’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign against Albania and Latvia.
Fans have already sold out Wembley Stadium for Tuchel’s debut, eager to see how he’ll shape the Three Lions in his first competitive games. With Southgate laying a solid foundation, Tuchel inherits a talented squad but needs to sprinkle in his tactical magic to elevate England to the next level.
What will his first England starting XI look like? Let’s dive into the potential lineup, formations, and tactics Tuchel might use in these crucial matches.
One of Tuchel’s biggest strengths is his tactical flexibility. Throughout his career, he’s shown he can adapt formations and systems based on the opponent and available players. His teams are known for:
Tuchel has made it clear that he wants England to reflect the intensity of the Premier League instead of mimicking other nations. He said, “We shouldn’t try to copy other nations. The Premier League is the best league in the world, and our national team’s style should show that. We’ll play a direct, attacking style with high rhythm and intensity.”
For the games against Albania and Latvia, Tuchel might go for a 4-2-3-1 formation, which offers defensive stability while maximizing England’s attacking talent. But knowing his tactical adaptability, a 3-4-2-1 or 4-3-3 could also be on the table.
Let’s break down the potential starting XI Tuchel could roll out in his first two matches.
England has a competitive race for the goalkeeper spot, with four strong contenders:
Pickford has been England’s go-to keeper since the 2018 World Cup, and even with competition from Ramsdale and Trafford, he’s still the most experienced choice. His distribution, shot-stopping skills, and leadership make him the likely starter for Tuchel’s debut.
Prediction: Jordan Pickford to keep his No.1 spot.
Tuchel’s defensive picks will be interesting, especially with injuries to key players like John Stones and Luke Shaw. Here’s how the back four could shape up:
With Kyle Walker nearing the end of his international career and Reece James dealing with injuries, Tuchel might turn to Newcastle’s Tino Livramento. The 21-year-old has been fantastic this season, blending defensive strength with attacking flair.
Prediction: Tino Livramento to start as England’s right-back.
With John Stones out and Harry Maguire just back from injury, this opens the door for Dan Burn (Newcastle) and Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace).
Burn, fresh off a Carabao Cup-winning campaign, has been rock-solid for Newcastle and deserves a shot.
Guehi has shown great composure for England and is one of the Premier League’s most reliable defenders.
Prediction: Burn & Guehi to start as England’s centre-backs.
With Luke Shaw injured, Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly could be a surprise starter. Tuchel has talked about “accelerating Myles’ career,” and his ability to keep possession and move the ball forward makes him a great fit.
Prediction: Lewis-Skelly to make his England debut at left-back.
Tuchel will likely use a double pivot in midfield, featuring:
Declan Rice (Arsenal) – England’s most complete midfielder, providing defensive stability and attacking runs.
Jordan Henderson (Ajax) – Though past his peak, his leadership and experience make him a valuable asset.
With Rice given more freedom to attack, this midfield duo can strike a nice balance.
Prediction: Rice & Henderson to start in midfield.
West Ham’s Jarrod Bowen has been on fire this season. His pace, directness, and ability to cut inside make him a perfect fit for Tuchel’s attacking style.
Prediction: Bowen to start on the right wing.
Bellingham will likely play behind Harry Kane as the main playmaker, linking midfield and attack with his vision, dribbling, and late runs into the box.
Prediction: Bellingham to play as England’s No.10.
Despite a rocky season, Rashford has found his form at Aston Villa. Tuchel has hinted at “pushing Marcus again,” making him a likely starter.
Prediction: Rashford to start on the left wing.
Striker: Harry Kane to Lead England’s Charge
As England’s all-time top scorer, Kane is a no-brainer selection. Tuchel knows him well from Bayern Munich, and his ability to drop deep and create chances will be crucial.
Prediction: Kane to start as England’s striker.
GK: Jordan Pickford
RB: Tino Livramento
CB: Marc Guehi
CB: Dan Burn
LB: Myles Lewis-Skelly
CM: Jordan Henderson
CM: Declan Rice
RW: Jarrod Bowen
CAM: Jude Bellingham
LW: Marcus Rashford
ST: Harry Kane
Thomas Tuchel’s arrival brings an exciting new vibe to the England national team. Fans can look forward to:
A high-energy, pressing game – England will go for the ball high up the pitch and quickly switch to attack.
More tactical flexibility – Tuchel can change formations on the fly, giving England an edge against different teams.
A fresh take on squad selection – Get ready to see younger players like Livramento and Lewis-Skelly getting more chances.
An aggressive attacking style – With Bellingham orchestrating and Kane leading the charge, England will play fast, direct, and thrilling football.
Solid defense – Tuchel’s teams are all about being compact and disciplined, so England will be tough to break down.
With this new tactical identity, England might just be on the verge of something amazing!
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England vs. Latvia: March 24, 2025 | Expert Prediction, Betting Tips | uk-matchday