Harry Redknapp has described his controversial comments about England manager Thomas Tuchel as a “joke that badly backfired,” following public backlash over remarks made during a March event. The 78-year-old former manager, known for his time at clubs like Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United, and Portsmouth, came under fire for calling Tuchel a “German spy” and appearing to mimic a Nazi salute.
The incident took place at a public event in London, where Redknapp was asked whether the Football Association was right to appoint Tuchel as the third foreign manager of the England men’s national team, following Sven-Göran Eriksson and Fabio Capello. Redknapp responded with a series of remarks aimed at amusing the audience, saying, “I think he’s a German spy. I’m telling you. Seriously, he’s been sent over to mess us up.” He went on to compare Tuchel to Lord Haw-Haw, a British broadcaster who spread Nazi propaganda during the Second World War, before mimicking a German accent and performing a gesture that appeared to resemble a Nazi salute.
When questioned about the remarks in a recent interview with a news outlet, Redknapp urged not to revisit the topic, stating, “Oh my God, it was a joke, you know, that badly backfired. But it was only a joke.” Despite his insistence that the comments were not serious, the combination of offensive humor and inappropriate gestures sparked criticism from across the football community and beyond.
Redknapp, who was once considered a strong candidate for the England job, also voiced his views on who should be leading the national team. He praised Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe, describing him as the standout English candidate to replace Gareth Southgate when the position became vacant. “The problem was there were no choices,” he said. “Eddie Howe was the only choice. Eddie would have been perfect but he’s got a great job at Newcastle as well.”
Tuchel was ultimately appointed to the role, a decision that some found controversial due to his nationality. Redknapp acknowledged Tuchel’s credentials despite his earlier jokes, saying, “In this particular time, we needed to look for a foreign manager and Tuchel was available. And he’s got a very good track record.”
In addition to his comments on the England role, Redknapp also spoke about the upcoming 2034 World Cup, which will be hosted by Saudi Arabia. He expressed optimism about the tournament, describing it as a safe and enjoyable destination for fans. “It’s going to be fantastic. Safe. Great atmosphere. People just come and have a great time,” he said. “So as long as they behave themselves, which is what everybody should do anyway. It’s a great place to hold a World Cup for sure.”
Redknapp’s remarks have highlighted the fine line between humor and offence, especially in public discourse. While he attempted to downplay the situation as a joke gone wrong, the response serves as a reminder of the heightened scrutiny public figures face, especially when addressing sensitive subjects such as national identity and historical trauma.
