Thomas Tuchel Disappointed by Fan Reaction to Ben White

Tuchel Unhappy as fans jeer White | Photo: Metro Sports

Ben White faced boos from England fans on his return, scoring and conceding a penalty in a 1-1 draw vs Uruguay. Thomas Tuchel was disappointed by the reception.

“This happened before to some players here, which is disappointing because I don't think it helps anyone...”

Thomas Tuchel wasn't happy with England fans booing Ben White. The defender got a rough reception coming off the bench in the 1-1 draw against Uruguay at Wembley.

White had been away from the squad for a bit, and Tuchel seemed to think the criticism was harsh. The boss was clear: “I was disappointed to hear that.”

Ben White left the World Cup in Qatar four years ago citing “personal reasons,” but the FA wasn't saying much else. Rumors swirled about a clash with England's then-assistant coach Steve Holland, though Gareth Southgate repeatedly shot down those claims.

It wasn't until 2024 that Southgate spilled the beans, saying White had actually made himself unavailable. Fast forward to his England return, and White got a seriously hostile reception from fans at Wembley. Guess some things aren't forgotten easily.

Celebrating England goal number for Ben White, Ben White scores, concedes penalty in England draw vs Uruguay

“This happened before to some players here, which is disappointing because I don't think it helps anyone. There was a mixed reaction,” Tuchel said.

“It was too good to be true when he scored the 'winner', which in the end was not a winner.

“In the end, he was perhaps too greedy in his defensive actions, but it was not a penalty.”

I was wrong. Ben White being booed by England fans and then those same fans celebrating his goal is the most ironic thing ever. https://t.co/YdfPgkS2Rx

— Tom Canton (@TomCantonMedia) March 27, 2026

Harry Maguire, back in the squad after 18 months, had some choice words for the critics. The England centre-back defended Ben White, showing solidarity with his teammate amidst the booing. “He's a top bloke, deserves respect,” Maguire said, basically 

“A bit crazy, scoring the first goal. I thought he was brilliant when he came on,” Maguire said.

“He's been good all week, a big smile on his face and he's brought great energy to the camp. He got his rewards tonight with the goal, and I thought he was brilliant when he came on.

“It's a ridiculous penalty. It's soft. He's kicked the ball over the bar. Ben just goes to try to block the shot.

“It's not a bad tackle, it's not malicious. It's part and parcel of defending in the box. There is going to be contact.”