Thomas Tuchel was named England’s new manager on Wednesday, with the Football Association turning to the German to try to land their first major trophy since 1966.
Former Chelsea manager Tuchel will start in the role from January 1, 2025.
The 51-year-old, who has been out of work since leaving Bayern Munich at the end of last season, succeeds Englishman Gareth Southgate as permanent coach and becomes the third foreign manager of the Three Lions after Sven-Goran Eriksson and Fabio Capello.
Tuchel, who has also coached Borussia Dortmund and Paris Saint-Germain, has the trophy-winning pedigree that the FA is seeking to help end a 58-year wait to win a major tournament since the 1966 World Cup on home soil.
The highlight of the German’s career to date came during his spell in English football when he won the Champions League with Chelsea in 2021.
However, the FA’s move has drawn criticism over their unwillingness to trust an Englishman with its top job overseeing a richly-talented generation of players including Jude Bellingham who will be among the favourites for the 2026 World Cup.
Southgate resigned shortly after losing the Euro 2024 final to Spain in July, following an eight-year reign that made England a force again on the international stage.
Tuchel will be assisted by English coach Anthony Barry, who worked alongside him at Bayern.
“I am very proud to have been given the honour of leading the England team,” Tuchel said in a FA statement.
“I have long felt a personal connection to the game in this country, and it has given me some incredible moments already.
“To have the chance to represent England is a huge privilege, and the opportunity to work with this special and talented group of players is very exciting.”
Sky Germany reported he will sign an 18-month deal, taking him to the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup.