Tuchel: England World Cup squad must have balance of talent and social skills

England boss Thomas Tuchel believes his World Cup squad must have the right balance of talent and social skills if they are to win the tournament.

The Three Lions will face Croatia, Panama and Ghana in the group stage as they look to lift the trophy for the first time since 1966.

Since starting his role in January 2024, Tuchel has already made plenty of headlines with his squad selections.

The German coach has left out the likes of Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden and an in-form Jack Grealish, while recalling experienced midfielder Jordan Henderson.

Despite some of his decisions attracting criticism, England won all eight of their World Cup qualifiers without conceding a single goal, scoring 22.

England will face Uruguay and Japan in friendly matches in March before Tuchel selects his World Cup squad, which will be based on more than footballing ability.

“When I speak to players who have been to World Cups, it has always made the difference when the connection was right, when the communication was right,” he said.

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“When the players had the feeling that the right group was in the camp, that they knew their role, why they are in camp, what is expected of them, and they had the feeling that the tournament could even go on for another four weeks and they would be happy to be together… then they were successful.

“It will be very important that we don’t select just on talent, but also on what we need from a player.

“It’s about what a player’s social skills are… is he a good team-mate? Can he support if his role is maybe a supporting role? So, this is where the focus is.

“We need to find the right balance for the team and take it as an opportunity and take it as a dream coming true, to be part of a World Cup.

“To play, hopefully, a major role, is nothing but a dream.”