Tuchel Prepares England for World Cup Heat in Spain Training Camp

BARCELONA, Spain — England‘s national football coach Thomas Tuchel will utilize the team’s upcoming training camp in Catalonia as a preparation phase for the intense heat expected during next summer’s World Cup. The team will face Andorra in a qualifier in Barcelona on June 7, before establishing their training base outside Girona instead of at their usual St George’s Park.

Tuchel emphasized the challenges of playing in the humid conditions of the World Cup, which will take place in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. “Suffering is one of the headlines for this World Cup,” Tuchel remarked on Friday. He plans to attend the Club World Cup in the U.S. next month to experience how the afternoon heat, particularly in cities like Miami, could impact gameplay.

“In the camp, we will test the players and observe how they react to heat,” he explained. “On a professional level, we will enhance our understanding of how to cool players, when to implement cooling breaks, and what methods are most effective for each individual player.” Tuchel expressed gratitude for the support from the Football Association, which allows him to concentrate on football.

As he gears up for the World Cup, Tuchel sees the Club World Cup as an essential opportunity to gain insights about playing conditions. “I am keen to experience the heat and the stadiums in America,” he said. “It’s crucial to understand how to cool our players and the best hydration options available. My experience from pre-season in Orlando already indicated that we might struggle, so it’s vital that the players remain fit.”

Additionally, Tuchel addressed Trent Alexander-Arnold’s performance, highlighting the importance of defensive discipline alongside offensive creativity. “He often depends on his attacking contributions and neglects the defensive side,” Tuchel noted. “To make a significant impact for England, he must prioritize defense because one mistake can be the difference between continuing in the tournament or going home.”