Tuchel praises Alexander-Arnold after England’s Nations League win amid reported tensions

Thomas Tuchel praised Trent Alexander-Arnold after England began their UEFA Nations League campaign with a 2-0 victory over Czech Republic on Tuesday.

The result came in England’s second match of the competition, following their 3-2 defeat by Spain at Wembley on Saturday.

Tuchel said his side deserved the win after improving following half-time.

“We played with a high level of professionalism and raised our performance in the second half,” the England manager said, as reported by the BBC. “We maintained our enthusiasm and pressure, remained very professional and did not stop putting in the effort. Therefore, the victory was deserved.”

England were helped when Czech Republic were reduced to 10 men after an early red card in the 25th minute. Tuchel admitted the dismissal had made the contest uncomfortable, but said his team still had to complete the job.

“It is unfortunate when the opposition receives an early red card,” he said. “This is not in the interests of the team or the fans. It is an awkward situation, but we continued trying, won the match and that is what matters.”

Alexander-Arnold played a key role in England’s opening goal, delivering the pass from which Anthony Gordon scored. Tuchel highlighted the quality of the Real Madrid full-back’s contribution.

“It is not easy to turn that into a goal,” he said. “It was extremely difficult for him. It was a great pass and a great goal.”

The England manager also praised both of his full-backs, after Alexander-Arnold and Lewis Hall featured on opposite sides of the defence.

“Both of them were good,” Tuchel said. “Trent’s position suited him better in the second half than in the first. Lewis gave an excellent performance on the other side. Well done to everyone.

“They deserve all the credit because they earned it. Now it is important to relax and enjoy the evening, recover well and then prepare for the match against Croatia.”

England travel to face Croatia in their third Nations League fixture on 3 October. They will then host Czech Republic in the fourth round of matches on 6 October.

Tuchel’s comments about Alexander-Arnold come after reports of tension between the pair in recent weeks. The speculation intensified after the Real Madrid full-back was left out of England’s squad for the 2026 World Cup.