England manager Thomas Tuchel has scored an early victory off the pitch after FIFA adjusted its World Cup media arrangements following his complaint about photographers blocking his view during the national anthem.
The News Chronicle reports that the England boss expressed frustration after being unable to see his players before their opening 4 2 victory over Croatia in Texas. Due to limited space around the pitch, dozens of photographers were positioned directly in front of the technical area, obstructing what Tuchel described as a special and emotional moment in his coaching career.
The former Chelsea and Bayern Munich manager openly appealed to FIFA to review the setup, insisting that the crowded touchline diminished an experience he had dreamed about for years.
In response, FIFA quickly introduced a revised arrangement that places photographers closer to the halfway line while also allowing coaching staff greater freedom to move during pre match ceremonies.
The updated protocol has already been tested in another World Cup fixture and is expected to remain in place for upcoming matches. While England’s coaching staff welcome the adjustment, discussions between the Football Association and FIFA are expected to continue as officials seek further clarity on media access and matchday operations.
