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Thomas Tuchel has pointed to Arsenal’s decision to play Declan Rice in a Champions League dead rubber as an example of how Premier League clubs prioritize their own interests.
The England manager acknowledges the concerns of club managers during this critical time of the season but maintains that his focus remains on England’s goals ahead of their second World Cup qualifier in just a few days.
After managing top clubs like Borussia Dortmund, Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain, and Chelsea, the 51-year-old is now experiencing life on the international stage for the first time. Tuchel is preparing for England’s match against Latvia on Monday after securing a 2-0 victory over Albania in his first match in charge, all while juggling the tight schedule to make the most of his time with the team.
Tuchel admits that, as a club manager, he would have preferred players not to play in back-to-back internationals. However, the roles have now reversed.
“I know that this window, this camp, is a crucial time for the clubs,” Tuchel said. “They’re competing for championships, and battling for quarter-finals in the Champions League. We understand that, but we also have our own goals and targets. The players are eager to play, and that’s how it should be.
“As a club manager, I always accepted it. I never interfered with line-ups or pushed any national coach to select my players. I also wanted them to be proud to play for their country. Of course, it’s never ideal if something happens, but we have a World Cup qualifier, and we will make responsible decisions.”
Tuchel mentioned that he hasn’t heard from any club managers this week regarding England’s players and humorously pointed out how clubs prioritize their own needs.
“After Arsenal’s 7-1 win in the first leg, and Declan Rice played the next match, I didn’t get the impression they were overly concerned about us,” the England boss said, referencing Arsenal’s Champions League match against PSV Eindhoven.
Tuchel continued, “I don’t think we need to overthink this. We take care of the players, manage the schedule, and stay in close contact with the clubs. We monitor their condition at a high level, and we won’t take any unnecessary risks.
My primary responsibility is to look after the players. I don’t want any injuries. I want them to play in the Champions League quarter-finals because, frankly, I want to watch them play.”
In the end, Tuchel emphasized that while clubs focus on their own interests, the most important thing is ensuring the well-being of the players.
