Wayne Rooney has expressed support for Thomas Tuchel to remain as England’s men’s national team manager, suggesting that the Football Association (FA) should only consider a change if Pep Guardiola becomes available. The comments come in the aftermath of England’s 2-1 loss to Argentina in the 2026 World Cup semi-final, a defeat that ended the team’s bid to reach their second ever men’s World Cup final.

Tuchel, who was appointed ahead of the tournament and received a contract extension through 2028 earlier this year, faced criticism for his tactical decisions during the semifinal, particularly as England appeared to retreat in the closing stages. The defeat revived familiar frustrations reminiscent of previous major tournament setbacks under former manager Gareth Southgate.

Despite the criticism, the Press Association reports that Tuchel retains backing from senior figures within the FA. Rooney, the former England captain, voiced his opinion in his podcast, the Wayne Rooney Show, that unless Guardiola—who the FA had reportedly contacted before Tuchel’s appointment—was prepared to take the job, Tuchel should continue in his role.

“If Pep is available, then maybe you go and get him,” Rooney said, referring to Guardiola, the former Manchester City manager. “I think he is a top-class manager and what the top managers do, they learn from the mistakes and they improve and get better.”

Rooney also highlighted Tuchel’s relative inexperience at World Cup tournaments, comparing the situation to that of Fabio Capello during his tenure. “The World Cup is different and you need to feel that environment and now he’s felt it,” Rooney added.

The debate around England’s managerial future has intensified following the team’s failure to advance to the final, with calls for a change balanced by recognition that options with comparable credentials to Tuchel are limited. The FA’s continued support for Tuchel at this stage suggests an inclination toward stability and further development under his leadership.