Former England midfielder Jermaine Jenas believes Thomas Tuchel should keep his job even if England lose to Mexico on Monday morning.
Jenas wants Tuchel to lead England through at least one more major tournament. England reached the World Cup 2026 round of 16 after beating DR Congo 2-1. The Three Lions will now face Mexico in a difficult knockout clash.
However, Jenas has questioned several of Tuchel’s decisions. He particularly disagreed with the choice to take Reece James to the World Cup instead of Real Madrid defender Trent Alexander-Arnold.
James missed the win over DR Congo through injury. Djed Spence started at right-back, while Declan Rice later moved into the position.
Jenas questions Reece James selection
During an exclusive interview with 10bet, Jenas criticised England’s decision to take James to the tournament without a stronger alternative at right-back.
The former midfielder believes James remains an excellent player. However, he feels England needed greater cover in that position.
Jenas also questioned why Alexander-Arnold did not make the England squad. He considers the Real Madrid defender one of the country’s best 26 players.
The former Tottenham midfielder also believes England have lacked creativity at times during the tournament. In his view, Alexander-Arnold could have offered another option against teams that defend deep.
Jenas argued that opponents would need to pay close attention to Alexander-Arnold whenever he had possession. His passing range could have helped England create more opportunities from deeper areas.
Jenas backs Tuchel despite criticism
Despite his concerns, Jenas remains a strong supporter of Tuchel.
He praised the England manager for taking responsibility for his decisions. Jenas believes Tuchel has followed his own approach rather than trying to protect his position.
The former England midfielder also suggested that Tuchel has accepted the possibility of losing his job if England fail against Mexico.
Jenas respects that mentality and would like to see Tuchel remain in charge. However, he believes some of the manager’s decisions have given critics a reason to question him.
The right-back situation remains the clearest example.
England face a daunting task
England face a difficult test against hosts Mexico on home soil. The match kicks off at 1am UK time.
Jenas does not believe Tuchel should lose his job if England leave the World Cup after the Mexico game.
Instead, he would like to see the manager lead England through another major tournament. Jenas believes Tuchel deserves the opportunity to oversee a European Championship campaign as well.
The former Tottenham midfielder also highlighted several unusual challenges at the 2026 World Cup.
Water breaks, different weather conditions and Mexico’s altitude could all affect the tournament. Managers must also deal with the physical demands of playing in different environments.
Jenas believes England will need some luck to win the competition. He therefore feels it would be unfair to judge Tuchel solely on the outcome of one knockout match.
His overall view remains clear: Tuchel has made some questionable decisions, but England should give him more time.
