Courtesy: The Guardian/X
Harry Redknapp, the former manager of clubs such as Tottenham Hotspur and West Ham United, recently made controversial remarks about England's head coach, Thomas Tuchel, during a charity event in London. In footage obtained by The Guardian, Redknapp humorously referred to Tuchel, who is German, as a "German spy" sent to sabotage the England team. He likened Tuchel to Lord Haw Haw, a World War II propagandist, suggesting that Tuchel was dispatched to "ruin that team." During his comments, Redknapp appeared to perform a Nazi salute, a gesture that has drawn significant criticism.
These remarks were made before Tuchel's debut matches as England's head coach. In addition to these comments, Redknapp has expressed skepticism about Tuchel's appointment. He stated that Tuchel must secure a major trophy, such as the World Cup, to justify his role as England's head coach. Redknapp emphasized the strength of the current England squad and suggested that Tuchel has all the necessary tools for success. He also voiced a preference for an English manager and raised concerns about the prevalence of foreign managers in English football.
Great start for Tuchel at England’s managerial stint
In March 2025, under new head coach Thomas Tuchel, England's national football team began their 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign with two victories. England played Albania in the opening fixture at Wembley Stadium. The match saw 18-year-old debutant Myles Lewis-Skelly open the scoring in the 20th minute, becoming the youngest England player to score on his senior debut. Captain Harry Kane added a second goal, securing a 2-0 win.
The second match also at Wembley against Latvia, England achieved a 3-0 victory. Goals were scored by Reece James, Eberechi Eze - both netting their first international goals—and Harry Kane. This win marked Tuchel as the first England manager since Fabio Capello in 2008 to win his first two competitive games.
