Thomas Tuchel sets England challenge in first video to fans

Thomas Tuchel has vowed to try and "add a second star" to England's shirt as he prepares to lead the team on their journey to the 2026 World Cup.

Tuchel's appointment was confirmed on Wednesday, eight days after he originally signed his contract, with the former Chelsea and Bayern Munich boss set to take charge officially in January 2025.

Keen to introduce himself to his new fans, Tuchel appeared in a video on England's social media feeds to set out his ambitions.

"Hi guys, Thomas here," he said. "I'm quite a bit nervous. It's my first message as the English head coach. I'm at Wembley. Where else?

"There's also a reason to be a bit nervous. I think that's a good thing. I'm very excited. I'm very honoured and I will do everything that we can to qualify for the World Cup, first of all, and then we have a successful World Cup, try to get a second star on our shirt.

"All the best, and see you soon in the stadium."

Former Chelsea director Marina Granovskaia, who was involved in the process to bring Tuchel to Stamford Bridge in January 2021, also sent a message of support to the new England boss.

"Thomas knows trophies," she wrote. "Congratulations TT and England. World Cup 2026 just got more exciting."

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