U.S. President Donald Trump criticized the tactical approach taken by the England team in their loss to Argentina in the World Cup semifinals, joining the list of critics of German coach Thomas Tuchel's decisions.
Trump made his remarks during a reception held in New York alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino, recalling his relationship with England team captain Harry Kane, with whom he played a round of golf in Florida about 18 months ago.
President Trump jokes that the U.S. should host another World Cup «without Mexico and Canada» while standing alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino at Trump Tower. He also laughs about Infantino floating a future U.S.-China tournament, saying players would love the «nice... pic.twitter.com/6pPftSSdnj
Trump stated: «You have a great player in England, I played golf with him, Harry. Maybe they made a mistake making him a defensive player. What do I know about soccer? They went ahead, then took their best player and put him in defense. We should be more offensive, right? What do I know about coaching?».
Trump's comments came after widespread criticism directed at Tuchel for his decision to pull forwards and bring in defenders during the last half hour of the match against Argentina after England took the lead, which forced the team to retreat into their own half, despite Harry Kane remaining on the pitch.
Lionel Messi capitalized on the spaces left by this retreat, creating the two goals that led Argentina to turn the match around and win 2-1, securing a spot in the final.
Tuchel, for his part, defended his tactical decisions, refusing to acknowledge any regret, stating: «No, I do not regret my decision. I felt we became too negative and I was trying to help the team.»