Ian Broudie speaks on Thomas Tuchel Era: “I would have preferred Jürgen Klopp.” | OneFootball

As England fans prepare to herald the beginning of the Thomas Tuchel Era, famous English musician Ian Broudie has also had his chance to weigh in. One third of the trio that immortalised perhaps the most famous footballing anthem in the world conducted an interview with Sport Bild earlier this week. Get German Football news is pleased to supply a translation.

SPORT BILD: What do you think of a German as England manager?

Broudie:

“It’s an extremely difficult job no matter who has it. As a non-Englishman, the critical lens will be very sharp. It’ll be extra tough for Tuchel! The first time they lose, public opinion will turn against him. When it comes to the national team, no one in England retains their common sense.”

Tuchel says he wants to earn the right to sing the English national anthem. Should he sing at all?

“I would be disappointed if he did. It would be ridiculous! He is not English, so why should he sing? But you also have to know that the interim coach Lee Carsley, who was in charge before Tuchel, played for Ireland and refused to sing the anthem.

“The country is pretty divided anyway, especially on issues like Brexit. I have a feeling that the Brexit supporters in particular don’t want a German as England manager either.”

What do you think of him personally?

“I don’t care where he comes from. Tuchel has been in the Premier League with Chelsea. He knows the country and the culture and the players. That’s what matters. Most Premier League clubs are now managed by foreigners.

“Before him, there was Fabio Capello, who failed, and Sven-Göran Eriksson, whose time is neutrally assessed. Because of Capello, I understand that some fans doubt Tuchel.“

Would he have been your first choice?

“I would rather have Pep Guardiola than Tuchel. Of course, as a Liverpool fan, I would also have liked to see Jürgen Klopp.“

If Tuchel wins the World Cup with England in 2026, will you sing the lyrics of “Football’s Coming Home” with him at the title party?

“Then I’ll celebrate with him! Even though the song is actually about the 1996 European Championships in England and the feeling of failure as an England fan.

“The song has nevertheless developed a life of its own over the years. I also love it when Germans or Spaniards sing it. In 1996, Jürgen Klinsmann even sang it.”

Would you incorporate Tuchel into the lyrics?

“I’m done with changing the lyrics. It’s been done over and over again over the years and adapted to the different tournaments. I would sing the ’96 version.”

You sang in Liverpool for Klopp’s farewell in 2024. Why was he such a good fit for Liverpool?

“He hugged me there. That was great! His values just fit Liverpool. The whole city loved him – and vice versa. I’ve heard that the people at Dortmund are very unhappy that he’s gone to Red Bull.”

Some see it as a betrayal…

“I find that hard to understand. Would it be the same if he went to work for the Glazers, the owners of Manchester United? Of course I wouldn’t like that. It would leave a bitter aftertaste.“

GGFN | Peter Weis