Tuchel prioritises England over clubs, warns he won't rest players to please them

Having already won his first match in charge of the Three Lions, Tuchel is preparing for his second game against Latvia in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.

In a press conference, the German coach explained that his priority as England manager is the national team, not clubs. He warned clubs not to expect him to rest players simply out of convenience.

"Since Declan Rice played in the next Champions League match after Arsenal¡s 7-1 win in the first leg, it didn't seem to me that the clubs were too concerned about us," Tuchel said. "So I don't think we need to worry about pleasing the clubs."

Tuchel reiterated his stance on player rotation, emphasising that the national team's objectives come first. "I take care of the players. We manage the schedule, but it would send the wrong message to say, 'Hey, you've got tough games ahead, so I'll give you a rest'."

He made it clear that while he is in contact with the clubs and understands the players' physical conditions, his primary responsibility is to protect the players' well-being.

"I won't rest players just to help clubs. We have a crucial match, and we will do what is best for us. We're not going to take any unprofessional risks because, above all, I'm responsible for the players. I don't want them getting injured; I want them all to play in the Champions League quarter-finals, because I want to see them."