Anthony Gordon has publicly backed Thomas Tuchel's claim that controlling games through possession is not part of England's football DNA. The Newcastle winger, who recently moved to Barcelona, agreed with the head coach's controversial assessment following England's World Cup semi-final defeat to Argentina.
Tuchel's Controversial Claim
After England's 2-1 loss to Argentina in July, Thomas Tuchel sparked debate by stating that "ball possession" was not in his team's DNA. The comment drew criticism from pundits and fans who felt it was a defeatist attitude. However, Gordon insists Tuchel was simply highlighting a deeper cultural issue in English football.
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"Culturally it's not just that tournament or that game," Gordon explained. "It's ingrained in us. We've always struggled to control games when we're under pressure. It's not in us."
Gordon's Personal Experience
Gordon, 25, revealed his surprise at being substituted when England were 1-0 up in the semi-final. But he refused to blame Tuchel's decisions for the collapse, instead pointing to a broader inability to keep the ball under pressure. The pain of that defeat, he admits, will scar him forever.
Since joining Barcelona, Gordon has gained insight into the Spanish understanding of possession. He believes England should stop trying to copy other nations and instead lean into their physical strengths.
England vs. Spain: A Contrast in Styles
As England prepare to face Spain in the Nations League on Saturday, the contrast in styles couldn't be clearer. Spain's tiki-taka philosophy has dominated international football for years, while England have often relied on pace, power, and direct play.
| Attribute | England | Spain |
|---|---|---|
| Average Possession (2025) | 48% | 67% |
| Pass Accuracy | 82% | 91% |
| Physical Duels Won | 58% | 42% |
| Goals from Set Pieces | 35% | 12% |
Key Takeaways
- Anthony Gordon agrees with Thomas Tuchel that possession isn't in England's DNA.
- Gordon believes England should embrace their physical strengths rather than copy other nations.
- The winger was surprised to be substituted in the World Cup semi-final but doesn't blame Tuchel.
- England face Spain in the Nations League on Saturday, a clash of contrasting styles.
The Road Ahead
Tuchel faces a tough task in reshaping England's approach while respecting their inherent strengths. Gordon's support suggests the dressing room is behind the coach, but results will ultimately determine whether this cultural shift succeeds.
As England take on Spain, all eyes will be on whether they can adapt without abandoning their identity. For Gordon, the answer lies in balance—using possession when necessary but never forgetting the physicality that makes English football unique.
FAQ
What did Thomas Tuchel say about England's possession?
Tuchel stated that "ball possession" is not part of England's DNA, suggesting the team struggles to control games through keeping the ball.
Why does Anthony Gordon agree with Tuchel?
Gordon believes England have a cultural inability to control games under pressure and should focus on their physical strengths instead of copying other nations.
When do England play Spain?
England face Spain in the Nations League on Saturday.
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