Thomas Tuchel has insisted he has no regrets over the tactics that backfired in England’s World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina.
The approach allowed Lionel Messi’s side to control the game, and Tuchel has faced sustained criticism from pundits, fans, and even his own players.
The U.S. President joined the chorus of critics, arguing that Tuchel misused captain Harry Kane by shifting him into a deeper defensive role during the closing stages.
Speaking at a White House press event, the President described Kane as a fantastic player but questioned the decision to deploy him on defence after England had taken the lead.
He acknowledged limited coaching expertise but called the late tactical adjustment unusual, drawing laughter from those in attendance.
Tuchel rejected the criticism outright when a reporter raised the remarks ahead of England’s clash with France.
Before the question could be completed, the manager snapped: “Do you use Donald Trump as your witness for the case?!”
Asked whether he viewed the final phase differently in hindsight, Tuchel said the team had become too passive and that momentum had shifted against them.
He maintained that his in-game decisions were driven by instinct, experience, and a desire to help the team, even though the result did not follow.
Tuchel accepted personal responsibility for the outcome but said he would regret inaction more than the choices he made under pressure.
“I have no regrets over the decisions I made,” he said, framing the defeat as the cost of live, high-stakes coaching.
