FIFA World Cup | Thomas Tuchel: ‘The Focus Is On Croatia’ As England Begin World Cup Campaign

England manager Thomas Tuchel said his squad had adapted well to conditions in the United States after arriving in Kansas City on Friday, insisting the team were physically prepared for the demands of the tournament. Speaking shortly after stepping off the plane, Tuchel said the group had already completed a significant period of acclimatisation and were in a strong position heading into their Group stage preparations. “The focus is on Croatia,” he said, adding that the immediate priority was settling into base before shifting into a three-day build-up toward the opening fixture. Captain Harry Kane described the tournament as the beginning of a “business end” campaign for England, saying the squad were eager to get started after their arrival in Kansas City, where they will be based for the opening phase of the competition. Kane highlighted the intensity of recent performances in pre-tournament matches, pointing to a sustained level of execution across the squad, including contributions from substitutes, as a sign of depth and readiness. He said Croatia, England’s first opponents, posed a significant early challenge, noting their pedigree in recent World Cups and stressing the need for immediate focus as the tournament begins in earnest. England’s camp will now remain in Kansas City for several days of preparation, with training and tactical sessions scheduled ahead of the opening match.