Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has voiced his support for the Football Association’s decision to hire German coach Thomas Tuchel as the new head coach of the England men’s national team, succeeding Gareth Southgate. The move has sparked widespread debate, but Arteta stands firm in backing the appointment.
Mixed reactions to Tuchel’s appointment
Tuchel becomes the third foreign coach to take charge of the England men’s side, following Sven-Goran Eriksson and Fabio Capello. His arrival has ignited divided opinions, with some high-profile football figures questioning the decision. While England’s women’s team has been managed by Dutch coach Sarina Wiegman, and other major sports such as cricket and rugby have embraced foreign leadership, Tuchel’s selection still raised eyebrows.
Premier League pundits Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher both publicly criticised the move, while Steve Cooper and Sean Dyche, current Premier League managers, expressed concerns about the message this might send to up-and-coming English coaches. In response, Tuchel addressed the matter at his first press conference, even jokingly apologising for his nationality and asking to be given “a fair chance.”
Arteta’s perspective on managerial nationality
Arteta, reflecting on the controversy, offered a different viewpoint, emphasizing that the key consideration should be hiring the best candidate for the job, regardless of nationality. Speaking ahead of Arsenal’s match against Bournemouth, Arteta acknowledged the emotional response but stressed that the FA must determine if nationality should be a factor in their decision-making.
He added that the desire of foreign managers to coach England reflects the country’s strong footballing culture and the respect with which the role is held. “Many managers, including myself, would be honoured to take the job. That speaks volumes about how well we are treated here,” the Spaniard remarked.
Arteta’s own connection to England
Having spent much of his professional career in the Premier League with Everton and Arsenal, Arteta has built a deep connection with England, a country he now calls “home.” Despite his impressive playing career, Arteta never earned a senior cap for Spain. In 2010, then-England coach Fabio Capello even considered recruiting Arteta to play for the England national team, as he had met the residency requirements after living in the country for five consecutive years.
Reflecting on that missed opportunity, Arteta revealed, “I would have accepted. It would have been an honour. Although it didn’t happen, I’m still proud to have been considered.”
“England feels like home”
Arteta’s appreciation for England has only grown over time. Now in his 22nd year in the country, the Arsenal manager spoke passionately about the connection he feels to his adopted nation. “This country feels like home to me,” he said. “I’ve always felt respected, welcomed, and inspired by the culture, history, and passion for football here.”