Boris Becker has shown his support for Rio Ferdinand’s positive reaction to Thomas Tuchel’s appointment as the new manager of the England men’s football team. The decision to hire Tuchel, a highly accomplished German coach, was met with a mixture of excitement and criticism from both fans and former players, some of whom believed that the prestigious role should have gone to an Englishman. However, Ferdinand, a former Manchester United and England defender, voiced his optimism about the appointment, which has since gained the backing of the tennis legend Boris Becker.
The Football Association (FA) found itself in need of a new manager after England’s disappointing loss to Spain in the UEFA Euro 2024 final. Following this defeat, Gareth Southgate, who had been at the helm since 2016, resigned from his position, bringing an end to his largely successful tenure with the national team. Southgate’s departure marked the beginning of the FA’s search for a new manager to lead England into future tournaments, with interim coach Lee Carsley stepping in temporarily. After much anticipation, on Wednesday, October 16, 2024, the FA announced that Thomas Tuchel would take over as Southgate’s permanent successor.
Tuchel’s appointment ignited a debate among fans and football pundits alike, with many questioning the FA’s decision to choose a non-English manager for the national team. Notable former players, including Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher, expressed their disapproval, emphasizing that the England team should be led by someone familiar with English football culture and traditions. Neville, a former Manchester United right-back, and Carragher, a Liverpool legend, both argued that appointing an English manager would have been a more appropriate choice, ensuring that the team retained its national identity.
Despite this criticism, Rio Ferdinand was among those who welcomed Tuchel’s appointment. Taking to social media, Ferdinand shared his thoughts on the potential impact Tuchel could have on the England squad, suggesting that the players would be intrigued and eager to learn from the German tactician. Ferdinand’s comments hinted at a sense of excitement among the squad, especially with several England players already familiar with Tuchel from their time in the Premier League. The likes of Mason Mount, Declan Rice, and Bukayo Saka have all played with or under Tuchel’s former players, including Kai Havertz, providing a sense of continuity and connection that Ferdinand believes will help ease the transition.
In a video posted on X (formerly Twitter), Ferdinand said, “I know for a fact these players will be sitting there ringing each other saying, ‘What’s he like?’ Mason, Mason Mount, what’s he like? Saka at his club with Kai Havertz, 100%, they’re calling these guys. Declan Rice will be doing the same.”
Ferdinand further elaborated on how Tuchel’s arrival could positively influence the England squad. “It will invigorate some, galvanize some players. There’ll be a little bit of apprehension, a bit of anxiety creeping in. But, I’m sure he’ll go in there, settle in on Day 1, and talk them through how he’s going to get them to be winning a trophy,” he added.
German tennis legend Boris Becker was quick to show his approval of Ferdinand’s views. Known for his enthusiasm for various sports, including football and the NBA, Becker reshared Ferdinand’s post, adding his own message of support. Becker, a fellow German and an ardent football fan, seemed particularly pleased to see his compatriot, Thomas Tuchel, take on such a prestigious role in international football. Becker responded to Ferdinand’s post with a brief but heartfelt comment: “Well said Rio.”
In addition to his public show of support for Ferdinand, Becker also took to X to personally congratulate Tuchel on his appointment. Becker expressed his pride in seeing a fellow German take the reins of the England national team, while humorously noting that he would root for England – except when they play against Germany. In his congratulatory message, Becker wrote: “Big congratulations on becoming England manager! Unless you play Germany, I will root for the 3 Lions now!”
Tuchel’s appointment is seen by many as a bold move, especially considering his successful track record at the club level. Over the years, Tuchel has built a reputation as one of Europe’s elite managers, with a list of achievements that includes domestic league titles in both France and Germany, as well as a UEFA Champions League triumph with Chelsea in 2021. He has also been recognized individually for his tactical brilliance, being named ‘The Best FIFA Football Coach’ in 2021. With his experience and credentials, the hope is that Tuchel can guide England to their first major tournament victory since the 1966 World Cup.
While the debate over whether England should have chosen an English manager continues, Tuchel’s appointment represents a new chapter for the team. With Ferdinand and Becker backing him, it’s clear that Tuchel has supporters from both within football and beyond. Only time will tell whether the German coach can meet the high expectations placed upon him and lead England to success on the international stage.