Paul Scholes slams Thomas Tuchel’s England exit comments as ‘engineering his way out’

Paul Scholes has accused England manager Thomas Tuchel of trying to engineer his own exit after the Three Lions’ World Cup exit to Argentina on 14 December 2025.

The former Manchester United midfielder questioned Tuchel’s public remarks following England’s semi-final defeat, arguing the German’s approach risks making his position untenable.

What did Paul Scholes say about Thomas Tuchel?

Scholes told *The Good, The Bad & The Football* that Tuchel’s post-match comments-including blaming England’s DNA for the defeat-sounded like a coach preparing to walk away.

“Saying it’s not in the English DNA. You’re part of that DNA now, Thomas,” Scholes said. “He’s gone on the offensive and blamed players a lot. That is something our manager would never do.”

Scholes also highlighted Tuchel’s history of falling out with players and directors at clubs like PSG, Borussia Dortmund, and Bayern Munich. “You just wonder with the way he’s been speaking, ‘do I want to get sacked’,” he added.

Why it matters for Paul Scholes

England’s World Cup run under Tuchel ended in a 2-1 semi-final loss to Argentina, their best finish since 1996. Yet Scholes’ critique centers on Tuchel’s public messaging, not just the result.

“He’s had big jobs, he’s not bothered,” Scholes said of Tuchel’s apparent indifference to staying in the role. “I get that but they should lead him in the right direction. If he wants to stay on he needs to play the game.”

Nicky Butt, Scholes’ former Manchester United teammate, agreed. “Do you not think the PR at the FA should be coaching him on what to say?” Butt asked. “If you’re going to stay on in this job, Thomas, you need to say this.”

Tuchel’s squad choices also under fire

Butt also questioned Tuchel’s substitutions, singling out the omission of Marcus Rashford and Ollie Watkins. “You look at the squad, he brings defenders on,” Butt said. “He’s not really got that many attacking options to go on anyway.”

Scholes and Butt’s comments add to the pressure on Tuchel, whose contract runs until after UEFA Euro 2028. The England boss has insisted he plans to stay, but his public stance may have backfired.

What comes next for England?

Tuchel remains under contract until after Euro 2028, yet Scholes’ remarks suggest his tenure could hinge on a shift in tone rather than results.

The FA has yet to respond to the growing criticism. England’s next major test comes in the UEFA Nations League, with fixtures due to resume in September 2026.

Tuchel’s future will likely hinge on whether he can adapt his communication-or if the FA decides his approach is too costly.