Scholes Slams Tuchel: Picking Wrong Team, Midfielder Out of Position

Paul Scholes has never been one to mince his words, and the Manchester United legend has turned his critical eye toward Thomas Tuchel's England setup. Ahead of the Three Lions' crucial group-stage fixture against Panama on Saturday, Scholes has insisted the German coach 'picked the wrong team' and is playing one of England's star midfielders out of position.

Scholes, a pundit known for his sharp tactical analysis, believes the miscasting in the middle of the park could cost England dearly. While he didn't name the player explicitly, his comments suggest a central figure is being forced into a role that doesn't suit his strengths—a recurring theme under Tuchel, who has often experimented with personnel and formations since taking the reins.

The issue comes at a vital juncture. With England already qualified for the knockout stages, Tuchel might have been tempted to rotate, but Scholes argues the lineup should be settled. 'It just isn't right,' Scholes reportedly said, urging the manager to shift the midfielder back to his natural position to build momentum ahead of the tougher tests that lie ahead.

This isn't the first time Scholes has clashed with a coach over positional calls. During his own playing days, he famously endured being shunted out wide, and his frustration with square pegs in round holes is well documented. For England fans, the debate raises questions about Tuchel's long-term vision—are these experiments necessary, or are they disrupting a winning formula?

Against Panama, England will face a physical, direct side that will look to exploit any disorganization. A misfiring midfield could leave the back four exposed, and Scholes's concerns echo those of many supporters who want to see the best eleven on the pitch from the first whistle. With the knockout rounds looming, Tuchel may need to decide whether to stick or twist.

Ultimately, Scholes's critique serves as a reminder that even with qualification secured, the smallest tactical misstep can derail a campaign. England have the depth to cope, but against Panama, the midfield shuffle could be the difference between a comfortable win and an unnecessarily tense afternoon.