Thomas Tuchel's first words as England manager as FA announce official start date for new boss
Thomas Tuchel has been confirmed as the next England manager
PA
Thomas Tuchel has spoken of his pride in taking the England job as Gareth Southgate's permanent replacement.
The German has signed an 18-month contract with England, taking him to the end of the 2026 World Cup.
But he won't officially start until the New Year with Lee Carsley remaining in charge for the final two Nations League group games next month.
Tuchel will be reunited with Anthony Barry at England as assistant manager, who will leave his current role with Portugal.
Thomas Tuchel has been confirmed as the next England manager
PAHe said: “I am very proud to have been given the honour of leading the England team.
"I have long felt a personal connection to the game in this country, and it has given me some incredible moments already.
"To have the chance to represent England is a huge privilege, and the opportunity to work with this special and talented group of players is very exciting.
"Working closely with Anthony as my assistant coach, we will do everything we can to make England successful and the supporters proud.
"I want to thank the FA, in particular Mark and John, for their trust and I am looking forward to starting our journey together.”
Barry worked with Tuchel at Chelsea and Bayern Munich and the 38-year-old has revealed how he first heard about the opportunity to work for England.
Barry added: "For any Englishman in football, working with the national team is the pinnacle and I didn’t hesitate when Thomas asked me to come and join him again.
"I know what a great place St. George’s Park is and how much of an advantage it gives our England teams, and the support it gives to coaches.
Thomas Tuchel already knows some players, including captain Harry KanePA"This squad is very talented and have done so much to bring the country together, I look forward to meeting and working with them on this exciting project.”
The FA explained that Tuchel's appointment comes after an 'extensive recruitment search' was undertaken after Southgate's departure.
There were said to have been 'several candidates interviewed' by Mark Bellingham and John McDermott.
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ReutersIt's also claimed that an Tuchel actually signed his contract on October 8, before the games against Greece and Finland.
The FA said the reason for delaying Tuchel's unveiling was to 'minimise distraction around the international camp'.
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