English media see it as a 'housewarming gift' for the new Tuchel army

England’s new chapter under Thomas Tuchel began with a 2-0 home victory over Albania in World Cup qualifying, a result that was more about control and professionalism than dazzling football.

It was, above all, the kind of start Tuchel needed. In a nation where expectations are always high and where managerial transitions are scrutinized down to every detail, this win brought relief, curiosity, and cautious optimism.

From the first whistle at Wembley, it was clear that Tuchel had not sought to overhaul everything overnight. Despite weeks of speculation about potential tactical revolutions and aggressive German-inspired pressing, the reality was more measured. England played with structure and patience, opting to dominate the ball and probe Albania's lines rather than overwhelm them with intensity. In many ways, it was an evolution rather than a revolution.

Before kick-off, Tuchel acknowledged that Gareth Southgate had left behind a solid foundation and that his job was to add layers without disrupting chemistry. The BBC observed this continuity, noting that there wasn’t much to distinguish Tuchel’s England from Southgate’s. Albania, truthfully, didn’t offer much resistance, and the match often felt like a training session in tactical control. Still, Tuchel did what was required. He delivered a win, and more importantly, no drama.

Sky Sports, while echoing the sentiment of tactical familiarity, pointed to an important psychological shift. It took just three minutes to see the new mindset, they wrote, referencing England’s aggressive opening sequences and immediate attempts to press Albania into mistakes. There was energy and assertiveness, perhaps less tactical flair, but more conviction in action. The outlet also noted some lingering vulnerabilities, especially on the flanks, where Albania found occasional pockets of space. Yet their final analysis focused on mentality. This team needs to rediscover its winners’ mindset. That is what Tuchel is here to instil.

The night, however, belonged to a teenager. Myles Lewis-Skelly, just 18 years old and making his senior debut for England, stole the spotlight. Starting on the left side of midfield, he showed maturity beyond his years. His positioning was intelligent, his runs were purposeful, and his goal was taken with the poise of a seasoned striker. It was a composed first-time finish after a sweeping England move, and for a moment, the crowd genuinely thought it might have been Harry Kane.

He’s a gift, The Guardian wrote, praising Tuchel for trusting such a young player on a big stage. He’s left-footed, full of running, and delivers both attacking threat and defensive discipline. At Chelsea, Tuchel had Ben Chilwell in that hybrid wide role. At Bayern, it was Alphonso Davies. Lewis-Skelly might just be England’s version. Jude Bellingham was quick to embrace his new teammate after the final whistle, and Tuchel himself made a point of highlighting the teenager’s fearless quality in the post-match press conference.

Bellingham, of course, was brilliant once again. The Real Madrid star has grown into a commanding figure for both club and country, and on this night, he pulled the strings with calm confidence. He was everywhere, linking play, directing traffic, winning duels, and delivering a gorgeous assist for England’s second goal. It was a lofted pass that cut through Albania’s defensive line, allowing Bukayo Saka to slide in and finish. The Daily Mirror gave Bellingham the highest rating of the night, an 8.5, calling him the best player on the pitch and the one holding the keys to England’s future. Tuchel, too, was effusive in his praise, saying that Jude is not just a talent now, he is a leader.

Other performers were solid if not spectacular. Declan Rice and Conor Gallagher provided midfield balance, with Rice anchoring and Gallagher buzzing between lines. At the back, John Stones and Marc Guéhi looked composed, though Albania rarely tested them. In goal, Aaron Ramsdale had very little to do. Harry Kane, still recovering from a minor knock, came off the bench in the final minutes but didn’t have enough time to impact the match.

What stood out, perhaps more than any tactical innovation, was the mood. England played with quiet confidence. There was less hesitation, less fear of making mistakes. It felt like a team transitioning not just between coaches but between generations. One that is cautiously letting go of the psychological baggage of near-misses and tournament heartbreaks.

The media reaction reflected that shift. While no one is getting carried away with a 2-0 win over modest opposition, the tone was upbeat. Analysts spoke of structure, clarity, and leadership. Three things that Tuchel has built his career on. He didn’t gamble, didn’t overcomplicate, and didn’t try to turn the spotlight on himself. He let the players, especially the younger ones, take center stage.

Still, Tuchel knows the road ahead will be tougher. Matches against stronger opposition will reveal more about his tactical flexibility, selection consistency, and capacity to manage egos in a star-studded squad. England have not lacked talent in recent years. They’ve lacked belief when it mattered most. Tuchel’s job is to change that. And that mission has only just begun.

For now, though, he walks away from his first game with a clean sheet, three points, a goal-scoring debutant, and a fanbase willing to believe again. The new era is underway, and if the early signs are anything to go by, England under Thomas Tuchel might just be ready to take the next step.