EXCLUSIVE: "He's the perfect coach for England" – Augsburg chief Benjamin Weber backs former boss Tuchel for World Cup glory

Having spent 13 years working as a video analyst for him, it's safe to say Benjamin Weber knows England head coach Thomas Tuchel well – so well, in fact, that he refers to him as a friend.

The pair worked together at Mainz 05, Borussia Dortmund, Paris Saint-Germain and finally Chelsea, where they won the Champions League together before ultimately going separate ways when Tuchel and his coaching staff were dismissed in September 2022.

At the time, Weber chose to pursue a career in sporting management and was appointed managing director for sport at SC Paderborn in early 2023, before taking over his current role as FC Augsburg's sporting director in the summer of 2025.

With Tuchel currently leading England at the World Cup, Weber has remained in touch via text messages and tells Bulinews.com that he believes the Three Lions have a great chance of going all the way in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

“England, with Thomas the head coach, are one of the biggest favourites in my opinion. I don’t mention that to him because he’s a friend and ex-colleague, but I think he’s the perfect coach for the English team at the moment," Weber said in an exclusive interview with Bulinews.com ahead of England's round of 32 clash with DR Congo on Wednesday.

England struggled at times to break down compact defences during the group stage – a challenge that could again present itself against DR Congo. 

However, if they progress deeper into the tournament, the knockout rounds are likely to feature games where Tuchel’s side will have less of the ball – a shift Weber believes will suit their strengths perfectly.

“They have the hunger and the mentality, but also the right balance in their squad. They have everything you need. They can have possession, but in these decisive games coming up it’s more about transitions and set pieces – and they have the kinds of elements and skills for that in the team,” he said.

Weber has high expectations for Tuchel and England. Photo: Richard Pelham/Getty Images

“I'm a bit of an England fan for this World Cup”

Looking back at his time working under Tuchel, Weber notes that while he learned a great deal professionally, he values the strong personal bond he formed with the coach just as much.

“It was perfect for me to work with him and learn from the best. It was a nice journey with him from the start and to the end winning the Champions League with Chelsea. That was the peak for sure," Weber said, adding:

"But it’s not only the professional side, but also the human side, when you’re in such close contact. I only wish the best for him and his family. He’s a top guy, a top manager, and I can’t hide that I’m a bit of an England fan for this World Cup.”

The round of 32 clash between England and DR Congo is scheduled to kick off at 18:00 CEST in Atlanta on Wednesday.