Tuchel 'following Germany' but 'heart with the English team'

Thomas Tuchel wants to refrain from offering advice to the Germany national team during the World Cup while he works as England coach.

“Of course I’m following the German team. But my heart is with the English team at this World Cup, that’s where my focus lies,” the German said after England’s 2-0 win over Panama on Saturday.

Tuchel praised Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann and the squad, calling them both “top-notch.”

“They find their own solutions,” Tuchel said, adding with a laugh: “If there’s one thing they don’t need, it’s my advice.”

Both Germany and England advanced to the knock-out stage as winners of their respective groups. The Germans will face Paraguay in the round of 32 on Monday, while the English team set up a clash against the Democratic Republic of Congo on Wednesday.