As England approaches the one-year mark before the 2026 World Cup, questions arise about whether the national team has taken a step backward since Gareth Southgate's departure. Thomas Tuchel's tenure began with promise, but recent performances have raised concerns among fans and analysts alike, particularly following a disappointing 3-1 defeat to Senegal in a friendly match.

Tuchel's approach, which aimed to instill a sense of joy in the game, has been met with frustration as England displayed no clear tactical identity during the match. This defeat, coupled with a lackluster win against Andorra, has led to growing discontent among supporters. The team’s inability to secure a victory against a competitive Senegal side highlighted the challenges Tuchel faces in revitalizing the squad.

Despite making ten changes from the previous match, Tuchel's selections have come under scrutiny. The recall of veteran players like Jordan Henderson and Kyle Walker has sparked debates about their effectiveness and whether they should remain part of the squad moving forward. Walker, in particular, struggled against Senegal, raising questions about his future role with the team.

England’s lack of a cohesive strategy and noticeable regression in performance have drawn comparisons to Southgate’s era, where the team had a more defined approach. Under Southgate, England reached the finals of Euro 2020 and displayed resilience in major tournaments. However, under Tuchel, there are concerns that the team is not progressing as hoped.

While Tuchel remains optimistic about the future and acknowledges the need for improvement, the pressure is mounting as the World Cup draws closer. England must capitalize on the upcoming international fixtures to build confidence and establish a clear identity. With a year to go until the World Cup, both Tuchel and the players must work diligently to address these issues and ensure that England is prepared to compete at the highest level.