The celebrations in Belgrade on Tuesday night were more than just about three points.
England’s 5–0 thrashing of Serbia felt like a turning point — not only for the team’s World Cup qualifying campaign, but also for Thomas Tuchel’s approach as England manager.
For once, it wasn’t about who was missing, but about who stepped up.
Moving Away from Star Dependency
England fans still remember the nationwide panic when David Beckham limped into the 2002 World Cup carrying an injury, or when Wayne Rooney’s fitness cast a shadow over Germany 2006.
Back then, everything seemed to depend on whether the biggest names were available.
Tuchel, however, is steering England in a very different direction.
Against Serbia, he proved that his team no longer has to lean on star power to shine.
Players like Morgan Rogers, Noni Madueke, and Elliot Anderson didn’t just fill gaps — they owned the stage.
Tuchel’s message is clear: no one is guaranteed a place simply because of their reputation.
The End of Untouchables
It’s no secret that past England managers have often talked about squad competition but still defaulted to picking the same old stars.
Tuchel isn’t buying into that system.
Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, and Bukayo Saka were all absent, yet Tuchel offered no assurances that they would walk back into the starting XI once fit.
His comments after the match hinted at something deeper — a rejection of what he sees as a creeping “big ego” culture.
He praised his team not just for the goals, but for their work ethic and humility: “We never stopped running.
There was no bad attitude after mistakes, no frustration, no arguments. Just a team ready to give everything for 90 minutes.”
Rogers Grabs His Chance
If there was one player who embodied Tuchel’s philosophy on the night, it was Morgan Rogers.
Not only did he win man of the match, but his enthusiasm and relentless energy set the tone for everyone else.
“I probably haven’t quite done it on an international level before tonight,” Rogers admitted, “but it felt like my time.
The team made it so easy for me to just play my game. Hopefully, this is only the start.”
A Manager Willing to Be Brave
When asked if he would have the courage to leave out major stars when they’re available again, Tuchel didn’t hesitate: “I am always brave.
This is a team sport. Everyone gets their chance, but the team comes first.”
It was another reminder that he’s prepared to make bold calls.
For Tuchel, it’s not about names on a squad list but about who’s ready to work, sacrifice, and play for the badge.
Qualification Within Reach
The emphatic win leaves England seven points clear at the top of Group K, with World Cup qualification looking all but certain.
A victory over Latvia next month could seal the deal.
For Tuchel, that milestone would be another step toward a dream he’s had since he was a teenager glued to World Cup sticker books and memorising player photos.
Why This Means So Much to Tuchel
“I was 16 during Italia ’90,” Tuchel recalled.
“I was out in the garden pretending to be Chris Waddle or Paul Gascoigne. I didn’t just watch football, I lived it.
That magic never left me. To now be here, with England, on the verge of a World Cup — it’s something very special.”
What Comes Next
The victory over Serbia wasn’t just three points. It was a statement — that Tuchel’s England is built on teamwork, not superstardom.
With qualification almost in the bag, the next challenge will be managing expectations, keeping egos in check, and proving that this new mentality can hold up against the very best when the World Cup finally comes around.