Thomas Tuchel calls it 'huge privilege' as German manager confirmed as new England boss

Thomas Tuchel has called it an "honour" and "huge privilege" to become England manager - as the FA confirmed his appointment.

In a statement, the new boss of the men's squad 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."

The German coach, 51, promised to "do everything we can to make England successful and the supporters proud".

Liverpool-born Anthony Barry will be his assistant manager.

Tuchel's appointment comes following Gareth Southgate's decision to step down after eight years in the job, following England's defeat to Spain in the Euro 2024 final.

Lee Carsley - the boss of England Under-21s - stepped up to the senior team as interim manager following Southgate's departure from the role.

He is expected to stay in charge for the next two Nations League games against Greece and Ireland.

FA boss Mark Bullingham said: "We are thrilled to have hired Thomas Tuchel, one of the best coaches in the world and Anthony Barry who is one of the best English coaches to support him."

Prince William, patron of the FA, posted on social media: "Exciting times for @England, with a generation of talented players and a new manager taking the reins.

"Thomas, wishing you the best of luck, we're all behind you! W."

Tuchel, who previously managed Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain, has been out of work since he left Bayern Munich last season.

He was in charge when Chelsea won the Champions League in 2021 but was sacked the following year.

He becomes the third non-English manager to take charge of the Three Lions after Fabio Capello and Sven-Goran Eriksson.

Tuchel was one of the bookmakers' favourites along with the likes of Pep Guardiola and English coaches Graham Potter and Eddie Howe.

His assistant in the England role, Anthony Barry, previously worked under him at Chelsea and Bayern.

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He also spent time with Roberto Martinez's Portugal and Belgium teams, as well as the Republic of Ireland.

The 38-year-old's playing career included stints with lower league teams such as Yeovil Town, Chester City, Wrexham and Fleetwood Town.