The Prince of Wales has declared that England are “closing in” on their ambition of World Cup glory this summer, during a private visit to the national football centre to thank behind-the-scenes staff.
William, who serves as the patron of the Football Association, made the trip to St George’s Park in Burton-upon-Trent, Staffordshire, earlier this month. He spent time chatting with backroom personnel, alongside England manager Thomas Tuchel, and praised them as unsung heroes.
Hopes for Historic Win
Expressing his optimism for the men’s team’s first World Cup victory in six decades, the prince remarked: “All of the things are coming in a line now: the Lionesses’ successes that they’ve had, two men’s Euros finals, it kind of feels like we’re closing in on that ambition.”
In footage released on England’s X feed on Wednesday, William was seen meeting coaches, analysts who shape tactics and performance, as well as medical, nutrition, and sports science teams. He told them: “I just wanted to take the opportunity really to come and see the team behind the team today and say thank you, and good luck to all of you guys who don’t get as much acknowledgement or credit as you deserve.”
He added: “Not everyone gets to see all the hard work you put in but the entire success of the players comes from what you guys (do), from the foundations you built, so thank you.”
Tuchel's Remarks
During the May 11 visit, Tuchel said to William: “It gets bigger and bigger – the team behind the team – so many specialists, from nutritionists to analysts and set pieces.”
The prince, a devoted football fan who recently saw his club Aston Villa triumph in the Europa League final, is rumoured to be travelling to the World Cup, which will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, at some point in July.
William concluded his address to the staff by saying: “Go with my blessings and my best wishes to all of you. Enjoy it. Look after each other, and give it your best. I’m sure we will do well.” He pressed his hands together in a prayer gesture and added: “Good luck.”
