Tuchel Criticizes German Fa Over Mid-Season Us Tour

Bayern Munich coach Thomas Tuchel has expressed his dissatisfaction with the German Football Association (DFB) regarding the national team's upcoming tour of the United States during the midst of the domestic season, citing concerns about the burden on players and their well-being. Tuchel raised his objections, emphasizing that the extensive schedule and travel requirements place considerable strain on top players, pushing many to their limits. However, he deemed raising these player welfare concerns with the DFB as "pointless." The tour in question involves Euro 2024 hosts Germany playing two friendlies in the United States—facing the USA in Connecticut on October 14 and Mexico in Philadelphia on October 18—before returning on October 19. This timing poses a challenge for Bundesliga clubs, as Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich, both contributing a significant number of players to the national team, have matches scheduled immediately upon their return. Tuchel expressed his skepticism about the tour's timing and location, stating, "I don't fully understand that before a European championship in Germany, we play against Mexico in America. I don't know if someone can explain it to me in a way that I'll be able to understand it." Furthermore, Tuchel revealed that Bayern Munich was not consulted about the tour's planning, despite consistently providing a substantial number of players to the national team. "We are only ever asked about it when everything has been decided... they probably know our opinion, but don't want to hear it. It's honestly pointless," Tuchel remarked. Upon their return, Bayern Munich will embark on a demanding schedule, playing five matches in just 14 days, with four of these fixtures being away games. This includes a Champions League clash with Galatasaray in Istanbul and a Bundesliga showdown against rivals Borussia Dortmund. Tuchel also voiced concerns about the planned expansion of the Champions League and the recent announcements regarding the 2030 World Cup, which will see matches played across six countries and three continents. He highlighted the strain such extensive travel and scheduling could place on players and expressed the belief that many club leaders and coaches share his reservations about these developments.