Roman Abramovich's ex-assistant gives opinion on Thomas Tuchel's England appointment

Marina Granovskaia has thrown her weight behind Thomas Tuchel to lead England to glory after his recent appointment. The Football Association has snubbed a string of English candidates to go with its first foreign appointment since Fabio Capello was in charge.

Former Chelsea director Granovskaia – who reigned at Stamford Bridge as a trusted lieutenant to ex-owner Roman Abramovich from 2014 until the club’s sale in 2022 – was instrumental in bringing Tuchel on board in January 2021. Despite Tuchel’s exit 21 months later amid conflicts with Todd Boehly’s hierarchy, it seems Granovskaia still holds the German in high regard when it comes to winning silverware.

Under Tuchel’s guidance, Chelsea reached the FA Cup final and then went on to clinch their second Champions League title by defeating Manchester City. Granovskaia’s admiration for Tuchel was evident as she shared a celebratory post, featuring herself and Tuchel with the coveted European Cup.

Taking to Instagram (via The Mirror), the influential ex-director reminisced about Chelsea’s Champions League triumph under Tuchel. The Blues were crowned kings of Europe just five months into Tuchel’s stint, and Granovskaia hinted at her confidence in his ability to replicate such success on the international stage with England.

“Thomas knows trophies,” she captioned the post, alongside an image of the pair with the Champions League trophy. “Congratulations TT and England. World Cup 2026 just got more exciting!”

With less than two years to gear up for the next World Cup, Tuchel is again operating under tight deadlines. However, Granovskaia will attest that the newcomer thrives under such pressure, not to mention England are an alluring project following their journey to the Euro 2024 final this summer.

Tuchel, 51, won’t officially get to work in his new role until January 2025, with temporary manager Lee Carsley holding the fort until then. The former England Under-21s coach will supervise England’s last two matches of the UEFA Nations League against Greece and the Republic of Ireland next month.

There’s a possibility Tuchel could have an early shot at success for England if they finish second to Greece in their group. This would propel the Three Lions into the promotion play-offs in March 2025, which will determine whether they’ll return to the competition’s top flight.

The question of whether Tuchel is the right choice for England has sparked heated debate. But Granovskaia is unwavering in her belief that England have made a wise selection.