Capello: Tuchel needs to stamp out England´s ´fear´ at World Cup

Fabio Capello believes England need to shrug off their tendency to “play with fear” at the World Cup but expects Thomas Tuchel’s side to be “tired” at the upcoming tournament.

England have not won the World Cup since 1966, on home soil, and their best finish since being fourth-place, both in 1990 in Italy, and 2018 in Russia.

Capello took charge of England between December 2007 and February 2012, leading the team at only one major tournament, the 2010 World Cup.

The Three Lions scored just three goals during their four games at the tournament and were knocked out by Germany. Capello said his players were tired and blamed the lack of a winter break in the Premier League.

Gareth Southgate came within touching distance of the Euro 2020 and 2024 trophies, losing both finals, but now Tuchel will take charge with the aim of ending the nation’s wait for silverware.

Capello, however, has concerns over the team already.

“This is the problem for England,” he told BBC Sport.

“They are tired, and they fear. The manager, he has to cancel these two things.”

Capello highlighted the Euro 2020 final against Italy – which England lost on penalties after a 1-1 draw – as evidence to his point.

“I remember the game against Italy,” he said. “They are winning after 10-15 minutes, and after they don’t play.

“They play with fear.”

England qualified for the 2026 World Cup with a 100% record in qualifying under Tuchel, though they failed to win either of their friendlies against Uruguay and Japan during the March international break.

They will face New Zealand and Costa Rica in friendlies prior to the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico before beginning their campaign against Croatia on June 17.