England’s 3-1 defeat to Senegal in a friendly has raised questions about the team’s energy, mentality, and tactical sharpness under Thomas Tuchel. While the loss may not carry competitive consequences, it highlighted worrying signs of stagnation and lack of identity at a time when England should be building cohesion ahead of the World Cup.
Senegal’s celebrations after the match reflected a passion and joy that England currently lack. Their players erupted with chants and cheers, showing what the result meant to them. Tuchel observed the contrast, noting how England, had they won, would likely have downplayed the victory. This, he suggested, points to a broader issue: a missing sense of joy and freedom within the England setup.
Tuchel arrived in the role with promises of intensity and dynamic football, but those elements remain largely absent. The performance against Senegal was heavy, predictable, and devoid of the kind of movement and risk-taking that defines successful international teams. Players appeared cautious, with the midfield and defence offering little in terms of fluidity or control.
Defensively, England looked vulnerable. Kyle Walker, usually a symbol of pace and stability, was sluggish and caught out for Senegal’s first goal, possibly due to rustiness after a disrupted season. John Stones’ absence was keenly felt, and questions linger about the long-term reliability of the current backline. Mistakes by Trevoh Chalobah and Myles Lewis-Skelly, both exposed by simple balls over the top, compounded the problems.
England’s buildup from the back was static and disjointed. Dean Henderson had few options to pass to, and midfielders were often slow to show for the ball. Tuchel has ambitions for a controlled, possession-based style, but such a system requires far more structure and synchronicity than was on display.
Still, there were glimmers of promise. After falling 2-1 behind, the introductions of Morgan Gibbs-White, Morgan Rogers, and the lively Eberechi Eze brought urgency and attacking thrust. Jude Bellingham and Noni Madueke added further drive, and for a spell, England played with pace and intent, albeit without scoring.
Harry Kane, despite scoring the opener and orchestrating play from deep, remains a question mark in a system that may eventually need more speed and variety up front. England’s play often slowed when channeled through him.
Tuchel will be aware of the mitigating factors fatigue, post-season disruption, and lack of stakes but with the World Cup fast approaching, there’s little time to fix fundamental issues. The talent is present, but the cohesion, spirit, and clarity of purpose are not. For now, the verdict is simple: England have a lot to learn.
