Several high-profile managers have emerged as potential candidates to replace Thomas Tuchel as England head coach should the Football Association decide to make a change following the Three Lions’ exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
According to a report by Metro on July 16, 2026, England’s hopes of reaching the World Cup final ended with a dramatic 2-1 semi-final defeat to defending champions Argentina in Atlanta.
England took the lead through Anthony Gordon early in the second half, but Argentina mounted a late comeback as Enzo Fernandez equalised before Lautaro Martinez scored a stoppage-time winner to send Lionel Messi’s side into the final.
The defeat has intensified criticism of Tuchel’s tactical decisions, particularly his defensive substitutions after England went ahead. Critics argued the changes allowed Argentina to dominate the closing stages and complete the comeback.
Former Tottenham Hotspur midfielder Jamie O’Hara was among those calling for Tuchel’s dismissal.
“This is what Thomas Tuchel was brought in for and now we’re out. It’s a sackable offence. He should be embarrassed,” O’Hara said.
Despite the criticism, Tuchel remains under contract until Euro 2028 after reportedly signing an extension earlier this year. However, bookmakers have identified several leading contenders should the FA decide to appoint a new manager.
According to the report, the five favourites are:
- Pep Guardiola (11/4) – The former Manchester City manager is the bookmakers’ favourite after a trophy-laden club career.
- Eddie Howe (5/1) – The Newcastle United manager, who was strongly linked with the England job before Tuchel’s appointment.
- Lee Carsley (6/1) – The former interim England manager, who previously led the national team on a temporary basis.
- Mauricio Pochettino (8/1) – The experienced coach, who has managed several leading European clubs and previously worked in the Premier League.
- Frank Lampard (14/1) – The former England international and Chelsea midfielder, who has managerial experience in English football.
Other managers reportedly linked with the role include Graham Potter, Carlo Ancelotti, Kieran McKenna, Steven Gerrard, and Unai Emery.
Tuchel, however, has insisted he remains committed to England and expects to continue in the role.
“We keep on going with the contract until the home Euros,” he said after the defeat. “I’m looking forward to that even though right now it’s difficult to look that far ahead.”
The Football Association has given no indication that Tuchel’s position is under immediate threat, although scrutiny of his tenure has increased following England’s World Cup semi-final exit.
