Royal | News - Prince Ricardo De La Cerda
Prince William has offered his best wishes to new England head coach Thomas Tuchel.
Writing on the official X account for the Prince and Princess of Wales, the future King wrote: “Exciting times for England.
“With a generation of talented players and a new manager taking the reins.
“Thomas, wishing you the best of luck, we’re all behind you!”
He signed off the message with his signature initial “W” – showing that William himself penned the message to the newest member of the Three Lions.
Tuchel, who previously managed Chelsea, Bayern Munich and Paris St Germain, said on englandfootball.com: “I am very proud to have been given the honour of leading the England team.
“I have long felt a personal connection to the game in this country, and it has given me some incredible moments already.
“To have the chance to represent England is a huge privilege, and the opportunity to work with this special and talented group of players is very exciting.”
The 51-year-old, who will be assisted by English coach Anthony Barry, will take up the role on January 1 ahead of the World Cup qualifying campaign.
A Football Association statement revealed Tuchel signed a contract on October 8 before the latest round of international fixtures but the announcement was delayed to “minimise distraction around the international camp”.
Prior to Thursday’s home defeat by Greece, interim head coach Lee Carsley had widely been considered the favourite to land the job on a permanent basis.
The recruitment process began following Gareth Southgate’s resignation in July, with several candidates interviewed, leading to Tuchel being identified as the preferred appointment.
Carsley will remain in charge for the final round of Nations League matches next month against Greece and the Republic of Ireland before returning to his role as Under-21 boss.
Former midfielder Barry, who spent his playing career in the lower leagues, has previously worked with Tuchel at Chelsea and Bayern Munich and is currently assistant to Portugal boss Roberto Martinez.
Tuchel is the third non-Englishman to hold the role, after Sven-Goran Eriksson and Fabio Capello.