US President Donald Trump might not have been seen attending any of the matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite being his country serving as one of the co-hosts, but he has made himself relevant in discussions related to the tournament time and again, sometimes even triggering controversies.
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In his latest episode concerning the marquee contest, which has two matches left, including the mega final on Sunday (July 19), the maverick leader has contributed to the growing criticism that England coach Thomas Tuchel has faced after the Three Lions’ heartbreaking semifinal loss to defending champions Argentina in Atlanta on Wednesday (July 15).
Trump doubts Harry Kane’s role in second half
Trump questioned the role that England captain Harry Kane was made to play in the second half of the game. Many believe the team went far too defensive, trying to maintain its lone-goal lead till the 85th minute. But the plan failed as Argentina captain Lionel Messi assisted in two goals by his team in the dying moments to pocket the match 2-1 to make its second successive final.
Trump, who will be present during the final in New Jersey to see Argentina lock horns with Spain, spoke on England’s exit while speaking at a FIFA reception held at Trump Tower in New York on Friday (July 17). FIFA chief Gianni Infantino was also present and called the current edition the “greatest FIFA World Cup of all time”.
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There, the US president mentioned Kane, whom he claimed to have played golf with. Calling the striker “fantastic”, Trump said England “perhaps made a mistake when they made him a defensive player”, ESPN reported.
‘They put their best player on defence’
“What do I know about soccer? They took the lead, and they took their best player and put him on defence,” Trump said, adding, “We have got to be a little offensive, right? But no I’m not going to call it. What do I know about coaching? It was unusual, but Harry is a great guy, actually”
Kane has scored six goals in the tournament so far and will have another chance to add to his tally when England take on France for the third-place decider in Miami on Saturday (July 18).
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Tuchel was asked about the US president’s observation, among other reactions to England’s defeat, at a news conference the same day. The German-born coach hit back, counter-asking the media whether they used Trump as their witness for a case.
ESPN cited sources as saying that Tuchel continues to retain the trust of England’s Football Association and is likely to remain in control till the 2028 Euro.
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