Today marks the official start of Thomas Tuchel’s tenure as head coach of the England men’s national team. The German tactician has made his mission crystal clear: to win the World Cup and add a long-awaited second star to England’s crest.

While his credentials are beyond question, Tuchel faces an array of challenges as he embarks on his first foray into international management. From navigating squad dynamics to managing immense pressure, the road ahead is steep—but potentially historic.

Taking the reins of England always comes with immense scrutiny, and Tuchel is no exception. His decision to delay taking charge until January raised eyebrows, particularly when interim head coach Lee Carsley oversaw England’s crucial win in Greece during the Nations League qualifiers.

Tuchel explained his rationale clearly: “I wanted to start with a clean slate and have 18 months to focus entirely on the World Cup.” He also joked about his relatively short stints at club management, highlighting the urgency of his timeline.

With only seven international windows before the tournament, Tuchel must hit the ground running. His emphasis on results suggests that his first squad selection could include surprises, as he seeks to quickly establish a winning formula.

Tuchel’s approach as England manager will be fascinating to observe. Known for his meticulous planning, he has already acknowledged the differences between club and international football. “We will heavily rely on the two or three days before a match,” he said, hinting at the importance of maximizing limited training time.

The March fixtures against Albania and Latvia provide a rare luxury: home games and ample time on the training pitch. Tuchel’s stated desire to play an “attacking style with a physical edge” aligns with England’s strengths, but fitting a wealth of attacking talent into a cohesive system will be no small feat.

Key questions loom large:

• Is Harry Kane an automatic starter?

• How can he incorporate Cole Palmer, Phil Foden, and Jude Bellingham in the same XI?

• Will Tuchel make bold omissions to achieve balance?

Tuchel inherits a squad brimming with talent but also lingering questions about loyalty to certain players. Under Carsley, several young players gained senior experience, broadening the pool of options.

The German manager may lean on players he trusts from past relationships, such as:

• Ben Chilwell, who thrived under Tuchel at Chelsea and helped secure the Champions League title.

• Harry Kane, whose prolific form at Bayern Munich under Tuchel (44 goals in 45 games) could reignite his international performances.

• Eric Dier, who played key roles for Tuchel in high-pressure games at Bayern, might offer experience and leadership in defense.

Tuchel’s first squad announcement will reveal whether he opts for bold experimentation or relies on tried-and-tested players.

Tuchel has set the bar high by openly stating his goal is to win the World Cup. After England’s near-misses in Euro 2020 and Euro 2024, fans and pundits alike are eager to see if the German’s winning pedigree can finally break the country’s title drought.

His arrival has sparked debate, with some questioning the FA’s decision to appoint a non-English manager. Yet, as history has shown, success silences critics. If Tuchel delivers England’s first major trophy since 1966, his nationality will be an afterthought.

Tuchel plans to immerse himself in his role from day one, with match scouting and backroom staff appointments already underway. His inclusion of former Chelsea goalkeeping coach Hilario signals continuity in his support team.

The March qualifiers will provide an early litmus test for Tuchel’s tenure. Success in these matches could set the tone for a campaign that culminates in World Cup glory.

The challenges ahead for Thomas Tuchel are immense, but so is the potential for triumph. Can the meticulous German mastermind the perfect balance of talent, tactics, and mentality to deliver the ultimate prize?

England’s journey under Tuchel begins now, and the hopes of a nation rest on his shoulders.