Fabio Capello Reveals His Unfiltered Thoughts on Tuchel’s England Role and Reflects on His Own Management Experiences in Madrid

Fabio Capello, former England manager, sits back with his espresso and laughs when asked if he has any advice for the current England boss, Thomas Tuchel.

“Good luck!” he chuckles, leaving his statement hanging in the air with an unmistakable grin.

While Capello doesn’t explicitly say “you’re going to need it,” his laughter speaks volumes.

The 78-year-old Italian manager knows well the challenges that come with leading England, and he’s not afraid to speak candidly about the difficulty of the role.

Speaking from the historic Palace hotel in Madrid, Capello shares his perspective on what it takes to manage the English national team, especially as a foreigner.

He believes that while it might be easier for an English manager, the job still comes with immense pressure. “It is not easy, for sure,” Capello admits.

“If you’re English, it’s easier. But that’s for the FA; they choose who they think is the best for the job.”

Capello Critiques Tuchel’s Approach to Managing England, Especially His Absence from Matches

Capello’s criticism of Tuchel becomes more pointed when discussing his commitment to attending matches.

The England boss has drawn some ire for missing three out of his first six weekends in the role, returning to Germany to visit his family.

For Capello, this would have been unacceptable. “You have to go and check the players every game.

Not on TV. Live,” he asserts. “You have to see every moment—the tactics, the positions, everything.

You can’t do that from the couch.” Capello recalls attending matches every weekend during his tenure, living in England to fully immerse himself in the football culture.

He doesn’t mince words about Tuchel’s absence, arguing that to manage the England team effectively, you must be present, especially when working with such high-profile players.

“You have to live in England, absolutely. You have to live the culture, everything.”

Capello Reflects on His Time with England and What He Would Do Differently

Capello’s time as England manager was marred by a combination of challenges, including his command of the English language and clashes with the media.

While many have criticized his strict regime, Capello still stands by his methods, asserting that his approach to training and preparation was solid.

However, he admits that one of the most defining moments of his tenure was Frank Lampard’s disallowed goal during the 2010 World Cup against Germany.

“Luck is really important,” Capello reflects. “If Lampard’s goal had counted, it would have been 2-2. That was a pivotal moment.”

Despite the challenges, Capello has no regrets about how he prepared the team.

“The sporting part? No. The life? No. Nothing,” he states firmly.

He continues to believe that the team would have fared better with a bit of luck.

Capello’s Views on England’s Current Struggles and What They Need to Break Their Final Hurdle

Capello offers his perspective on why England consistently falls short in major finals.

“They play with fear,” he explains. “No confidence, no bravery.

Like a monkey on their back. Too many years without a trophy.”

He believes that fear holds back England from playing at their best when it matters most, pointing to their recent losses in the Euro 2020 final and the Nations League final as evidence.

To overcome these mental barriers, Capello suggests that Tuchel needs to focus on building team spirit and helping players find their confidence.

“Find the team spirit and find the players at the top of their game,” he advises.

“Because you have no time at training. It’s a very different job.”

Capello Reflects on His Own Management Style and Highlights the Importance of Player Attitude

As a manager, Capello was known for his strict and sometimes controversial rules, including banning butter, ketchup, and mobile phones during team meals.

While these rules earned him criticism, he stands by his belief that discipline is crucial for success.

However, Capello does acknowledge that he could have handled his relationship with the media better.

“I didn’t have problems with the journalists or TV because I was correct and straight,” he says, laughing. “Always correct and straight.”

Today, Capello reflects on the importance of players understanding the value of the team shirt, something he feels is lacking at both Manchester United and Milan.

He sees similarities between these two clubs, both of which have failed to live up to their historic reputations.

Capello’s Admiration for Ancelotti and Thoughts on the Premier League’s Future

Capello’s admiration for Carlo Ancelotti is unwavering. “Carlo is the best manager in the world,” he declares without hesitation.

He admires Ancelotti’s ability to adapt to different players and styles, likening his versatility to “making wine with different grapes.”

Capello contrasts Ancelotti’s intelligence with the struggles of clubs like Manchester United and Milan, who, despite spending large sums on players, still struggle to understand the club’s values.

Capello’s insights into the Premier League and his experience in top-tier football remain as sharp as ever.

As he sees it, leadership and understanding of club values are paramount to success, and teams like United need to address this if they are to return to their former glory.