Some England fans are causing a stir at the Nations League game against Ireland with a banned Germany song. It probably has something to do with Thomas Tuchel‘s involvement on the island.
After the English national team’s game against Ireland (5-0), an unpleasant incident occurred: some fans of the “Three Lions” sang the discriminatory song “Ten German Bombers” at the “Wembley Park” subway station. This is reported by the British “Telegraph”.
The song, sung to the tune of “She’ll Be Coming Round the Mountain”, refers to German fighter planes shot down by the British Royal Air Force during World War II.
Both UEFA and the English Football Association (FA) have officially banned the song because of its discriminatory message and have announced harsh consequences for chants of this kind in the stadium. “We would classify it as an ultra-nationalist song,” UEFA is quoted as saying.
The background to the incident is likely to be that Thomas Tuchel will take over the English national team from January 1, 2025. The former Bayern coach is the first German to hold this position.
Tuchel’s signing is met with criticism
The decision to make Tuchel national coach was not only met with approval in England. Critical voices – including England legend Gary Lineker – emphasize that the major football nations such as Brazil, Germany and Argentina traditionally rely on coaches from their own country. “The coach of a national team should come from the country itself,” explained Lineker. Some fans seem to agree with him.
Tuchel will be at Wembley Stadium for the first time as England coach at the international matches in March 2025. Only results can help against the fans’ reservations.
Be a strict requirement. What matters most is the coach’s ability to bring success to the team, regardless of their nationality. If Tuchel can elevate our game and help England achieve its potential, I’m all for it.
Thank you for requesting an interview. Here are some potential questions for the guests:
Guests: Rob, an England fan who attended the Nations League game, and Mark, a Germany national who works as a football journalist.
Section 1: Discussion about the banned Germany song
Host: Can you tell us more about the “Ten German Bombers” song and why it’s considered discriminatory?
Rob: Well, it’s a song that refers to the German fighter planes shot down by the British Royal Air Force during World War II. It has a very negative connotation and is offensive to many German people.
Mark: Yes, I can understand why it’s banned. The song promotes hate and division between nations, which goes against the spirit of football and the values of inclusion that FIFA upholds.
Host: As an England fan, Rob, how do you feel about your fellow fans singing such a song?
Rob: I don’t condone it. It’s not representative of the majority of England fans who support our team, and I think it’s shameful that some people still harbor such hateful sentiments.
Mark: I agree, Rob. It’s disappointing to see such behavior from a minority of fans at a time when many people thought we had moved beyond these kinds of discriminatory actions.
Section 2: The criticism of Thomas Tuchel’s signing as England coach
Host: Mark, as a Germany national, how do you feel about Thomas Tuchel coaching England?
Mark: I think it’s an interesting choice. Tuchel is known for his success as a coach, so I’m sure he’ll do well. However, I understand the criticisms that come with hiring a foreign coach for a national team. There’s a certain level of pride and tradition in having a homegrown coach.
Rob: From an England fan’s perspective, I’m actually quite excited about Tuchel’s signing. He’s had success with both Borussia Dortmund and Chelsea, and I believe he can bring new ideas and techniques to the team.
Host: What about you, Rob? Do you think England should prioritize hiring a British coach over an international one?
Rob: I don’t think it should