England manager Thomas Tuchel is pushing for new rules for the World Cup but does not expect his proposals to be considered. Tuchel will take part in a series of coaching meetings in Washington next month ahead of the December 5 draw.
Discussions are expected to revolve around team size, which is likely to increase to 26 in an expanded tournament given the sweltering weather in the United States, water breaks and additional alternate slots. England will now know not only their opponents, but also their home base in the United States, determined by a seeding system, and will be able to secure training facilities.
Kansas City would like to, but the final decision will depend on a tie. They will also hold talks with David Beckham and practice at Inter Miami’s home base in Fort Lauderdale, with two friendlies scheduled in Florida in June.
“We’re going to prepare well so we can have a good opinion. We’re looking forward to it and now the games are finally starting and we can plan how we’re going to play, where we’re going to end up staying and how we’re going to arrange everything in the tournament,” Tuchel said.
“But I didn’t have a lot of good experience when it came to bringing ideas to the table because I was at UEFA with coaches from Chelsea and the Champions League, but we had a lot of ideas but hardly anyone listened.
“Sometimes I will listen to opinions if asked, but I don’t think I can really change the rules or anything meaningful, but I don’t have any expectations.
“There is an ideal scenario for us, but there are things we have to clarify, like where we will train, where we will live. We are on board with that plan, that is my understanding, but nothing is final. If we talk about it, it will only complicate things further.”
