Thomas Tuchel was appointed England manager in October, started the job in January and on Friday will finally take charge of the national team for the first time. The German was hired with a view to winning the World Cup in 2026 and his first match marks the beginning of qualifying for that competition, with Albania visiting Wembley.

A new era begins as England kick off their 2026 World Cup qualification campaign by welcoming Albania to Wembley on Friday night. Thomas Tuchel officially began work on January 1, but this game really marks the start of his reign in charge of the Three Lions.

Thomas Tuchel will name his first England XI on Friday night as the Three Lions line up against Albania in their 2026 World Cup qualifier. Five months on from his official appointment, the German coach has had his first opportunity to work with the group at St George’s Park this week.