Coach vs. Football Lover
WM Drinking Breaks Leave Tuchel in a Dilemma
24.06.2026 | 09:28 Uhr
Few topics have sparked as much debate during this World Cup as the drinking breaks. England’s coach Thomas Tuchel has a dual perspective on the issue.
Thomas Tuchel finds himself torn over the implementation of drinking breaks during the World Cup. “It disrupts and changes the rhythm of the game more than I thought,” he remarked, discussing the controversial interruptions occurring in the middle of both halves. “It basically divides the game into four quarters, fundamentally altering the character of football,” he stated ahead of England’s match against Ghana in Boston.
The Perspective of a Coach
As a coach, Tuchel appreciates the interruptions. “I like them because they allow me to exert influence,” he noted. These breaks offer coaches a strategic opportunity to adjust tactics, provide immediate feedback, and motivate players. Such influence can often be the difference between winning and losing.
The Love for the Game
However, as a football lover, he expressed a contrary opinion: “I would prefer if the game flowed continuously.” Tuchel emphasized the importance of maintaining the momentum, a key aspect in football’s charm. “It is challenging to build and sustain momentum when there are pauses. The struggle between players unfolds over a more extended period without interruptions, contributing to the essence of this beautiful game.” The disruption can lead to an encounter that feels more segmented rather than a continuous battle for supremacy.
Fans Weigh In
The opinions of the fans resonate louder during these breaks. Booing and hissing have become a ritual during drinking breaks, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction. The FIFA-mandated “Hydration Breaks,” regardless of temperature, have drawn significant ire from spectators and players alike. Dutch captain Virgil van Dijk criticized the influx of commercial interruptions during these pauses, stating, “The breaks for advertisements are something I dislike. I believe it is also quite uncomfortable for neutral spectators.”
In conclusion, Tuchel’s reflections exemplify the internal conflict many professionals experience when operational rules of the game intersect with their passion for football. The drinking breaks may serve a practical purpose, but they undoubtedly pose challenges to the game’s traditional flow, leading fans and players alike to contemplate the true essence of football.
