Speaking to Football Presse, Hodgson addressed the impact of Thomas Tuchel — who has taken charge of the England national football team.
“I find it very, very strange that a foreign person can manage another country,” Hodgson said.
“I’m not a fan of it.”
Tuchel, a Champions League-winning coach with a proven track record at elite club level, represents a modern trend in international football — where federations increasingly look beyond national borders for success.
But Hodgson believes international football should remain tied to national identity.
“He’s not English,” he said. “I pray he does a great job, but I’m not a fan of an overseas manager being in charge of a country team.”
Hodgson’s view reflects a long-standing debate within English football — balancing the desire for success with the importance of national representation.
Despite his reservations, Hodgson made it clear that results would ultimately shape opinion.
“If he can take England to success at the Euros or the World Cup, then we’ll honour him,” he said.
England’s recent near-misses in major tournaments have increased pressure to finally deliver silverware, regardless of who is in charge.
But for Hodgson, the ideal scenario remains unchanged.
“Would I love an English manager leading England to success? Absolutely,” he said.
While the debate continues, one thing is clear: expectations remain as high as ever.
And whether led by a domestic coach or a foreign one, England’s next step must be delivering on the biggest stage.