Thomas Tuchel has made an unusual admission about England’s World Cup campaign, revealing that he regrets not eating some of the grass at the Estadio Azteca following the team’s dramatic victory over Mexico.
England defeated the tournament co-hosts 3-2 in the last 16, producing one of the most memorable performances of their campaign despite playing with 10 men for part of the match.
The victory ultimately proved to be one of the highlights of England’s tournament, which ended with a semi-final defeat by Argentina.
Speaking to former England striker Daniel Sturridge in an interview for the Football Association, Tuchel explained why he wished he had taken a rather unconventional souvenir from the occasion.
Thomas Tuchel Reveals His Bizarre Grass Regret
Tuchel admitted that the atmosphere and emotion surrounding the victory had left a lasting impression.
“I texted a friend after the match and I just wrote, ‘I regret that I didn’t eat some grass after the match to keep something from this in my body forever.’ That was the feeling. That was the moment.”
Although the comment may sound unusual, Tuchel was describing the significance of the occasion and his desire to preserve the memory of a special night for England.
The Three Lions had to withstand significant pressure in Mexico City after Jarell Quansah was sent off, with Jude Bellingham scoring twice and Harry Kane converting a penalty during the 3-2 win.
Jordan Henderson’s Injury Highlighted England’s Togetherness
The drama did not end when the final whistle was blown.
During the celebrations, unused substitute Jordan Henderson suffered a broken arm after attempting to jump over an advertising hoarding.
Tuchel said the reaction of the England players demonstrated the bond that had developed within the squad.
“Within a second, the players were there. Every single player was there stopping the celebrations, building a shield, protecting Jordan, not going nowhere, in full empathy. It was just so special.”
For Tuchel, the incident provided a clear example of the connection between the players, particularly after sharing such an intense experience together.
The manager also described the Mexico victory as a moment that strengthened his relationship with the squad.
England Turn Their Attention to the Nations League
Despite reaching the semi-finals, England’s World Cup campaign ended in disappointment following their defeat by Argentina.
The team did, however, finish the tournament with a 6-4 victory over France in the bronze final, giving Tuchel and his players another positive result to build on.
England recorded eight wins, one draw and one defeat during their 10-match World Cup campaign, according to Tuchel.
The manager is now looking ahead to the next stage of his tenure, with England preparing for their upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures.
While Tuchel’s grass confession may be one of the more unusual reflections from the tournament, it underlines just how strongly he remembers England’s famous night in Mexico City.
