Thomas Tuchel's intense training methods were on full display as England prepared for their World Cup clash against Ghana, offering a rare glimpse behind the curtain. The German head coach, wearing a hoodie to shield from the Missouri sun, barked instructions at a group of players including Elliot Anderson, Jude Bellingham, Anthony Gordon, Marcus Rashford, Djed Spence, and Ollie Watkins.
No Place to Hide Under Tuchel's Watchful Eye
During the open training session at England's Kansas City base, journalists were allowed to observe more than the usual 15 minutes. Mannequins were arranged in four zones, and Tuchel's perfectionism was evident as he demanded precision. Dan Burn later told the media, "If he sees something that he doesn't like he calls it out." The focus was on accelerating play and moving through the lines, with players passing through mannequins using only two touches.
Intensity Rises as Tuchel Demands Perfection
Tuchel is known for his attention to detail, even measuring the height of training grass. He insists on players controlling the ball with the correct foot to speed up play. During the drill, he blew a whistle and directed players on which foot to use. He singled out Djed Spence, saying, "Open up. It's been five minutes already, Djed. Come on!" The intensity increased as England worked on beating the press, a weakness exposed in their first half against Croatia.
Lessons from Croatia Clash
England's opening game against Croatia saw them struggle to beat the press in the first half, losing the lead twice before a second-half burst secured victory. Tuchel's methods aim to replicate Premier League speed and physicality. "If a left-footer receives the ball on their correct foot, it makes it easier to open up the body and pass beyond an opponent," he explained. Players have praised the clarity and honesty of Tuchel and assistant Anthony Barry.
Team Bonding and High Demands
Despite the intense training, there is room for levity. Players enjoy basketball and backgammon at the hotel, and Burn is learning the card game Wolf. On a day off, Harry Kane, Jason Steele, and Burn attended an Ella Langley concert. "I like country music, so I had a cowboy hat on and cowboy boots," Burn said. "Ella is an amazing country artist. Then today it's focused back on football."
Honesty from Tuchel and Barry
Anthony Barry, Tuchel's assistant, delivered a searing half-time critique of England's first-half performance against Croatia on ITV, citing nervous energy. Burn, who worked with Barry at Wigan Athletic, said, "There's no grey areas with Baz and the manager. They just say it how it is. That's all you want as a player." The double act ensures England's players hear about any lapses in intensity.
