Story perspectives

Trump Criticizes England Coach, Praises Kane, Demands Suspension Review

7/18/2026

Summary

Trump Slams Tuchel

U.S. President Donald Trump criticized England coach Thomas Tuchel after England’s 2-1 loss to Argentina in Atlanta.
Trump said he had played golf with captain Harry Kane, praised him, and called moving him into defense after the 55th-minute lead a mistake.
Trump urged FIFA president Gianni Infantino to review Folarin Balogun’s 12-month red-card suspension.
Tuchel defended his back-five switch and said he had no regrets about the tactics.

Summary

Tuchel Stays

The Football Association confirmed Thomas Tuchel will remain England manager through Euro 2028 despite the semi-final backlash.
England will face France in the World Cup third-place playoff on Saturday in Miami.
Tuchel said England dropped into a deep block after leading, becoming passive and losing duels in the final 30 minutes.
He praised the squad’s spirit and mentality built over six-and-a-half weeks and said fixing the passivity is the next step.

Summary

Trump Hands Trophy

U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to attend the FIFA World Cup final featuring Spain and Argentina on July 18, 2026, and hand the trophy on the pitch.
Trump appeared at the FIFA Club World Cup final last summer, staying onstage after presenting the trophy, drawing media attention.
During a FIFA reception he stood beside FIFA President Gianni Infantino while commenting on England’s tactics.

History

Historical Context

The United States hosted the 1994 World Cup, the first tournament on American soil and a record 3.59 million spectators attended. The 2026 edition, also co-hosted by the United States, will see former President Donald Trump criticize England manager Thomas Tuchel and present the trophy, illustrating how political figures have become part of FIFA’s high-profile events.

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Trump Slams Tuchel

U.S. President Donald Trump criticized England coach Thomas Tuchel after England’s 2-1 loss to Argentina in Atlanta.
Trump said he had played golf with captain Harry Kane, praised him, and called moving him into defense after the 55th-minute lead a mistake.
Trump urged FIFA president Gianni Infantino to review Folarin Balogun’s 12-month red-card suspension.
Tuchel defended his back-five switch and said he had no regrets about the tactics.

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