Wayne Rooney ‘Surprised’ by FA’s Decision to Appoint Thomas Tuchel as England Manager

Wayne Rooney has questioned the Football Association’s choice to ignore homegrown potential and voiced surprise at the appointment of German coach Thomas Tuchel as the new manager of England.

After leading the Three Lions to two European Championship finals, Gareth Southgate stepped aside from his position, and the FA has been looking for a permanent replacement. Although U21 manager Lee Carsley was given interim leadership, the FA finally chose to name Tuchel, who will become the third foreign manager to oversee the England national side in history.

What Wayne Rooney Said

Rooney, who earned 120 caps for England under the leadership of foreign managers Sven-Goran Eriksson and Fabio Capello, expressed his surprise over the appointment of Tuchel.

“I’m surprised. He’s a very good coach, but I’m surprised the FA have employed him. But I wish him all the best and I hope he does well.” Rooney told the media. He added:

“What the FA have built over the last 10-15 years has been a great platform for young coaches coming through, so I’m surprised they haven’t gone with one of their own. But, as I said, they have made the decision, and I wish him all the best and I hope he does well for us.”