Tuchel refuses to discuss player rest with Premier League managers

England manager Thomas Tuchel has insisted that neither national team players nor their clubs should be allowed to pick and choose which matches they play during the international break. England are set to play four UEFA Nations League matches during this busy period.

Tuchel's England lost to world champions Spain on Saturday in the first of these fixtures. The team will visit the Czech Republic on Tuesday, face Croatia next Saturday, and then host the Czechs again on October 6.

Tuchel responds to calls for player rest

The congested schedule has led to calls for some players—who had only a short summer break after the World Cup—to be rested. Tuchel clarified that he has not communicated with any Premier League club managers regarding player involvement, stating: "I do not answer calls from Premier League managers, and I never contacted any national team coach when I was managing clubs."

Tuchel added that managing players' minutes is completely impossible, stressing that he will not give players the impression that they can step back or only play a partial role in any match.

Focus on winning and consistency

Tuchel explained that his goal is to win every match, saying the ideal scenario for him is to rely on the same starting lineup repeatedly, with at least six or seven regular starters to give them responsibility and confidence.

He noted that England will give their all in the upcoming match against the Czech Republic at Fortuna Arena in Prague, emphasizing the importance of taking the initiative and not resorting to player rotation or conserving effort.