Thomas Tuchel to start work early! Why new England manager is set to make his first appearance as Three Lions boss three weeks ahead of schedule - explained

Tuchel was set to begin his new role as England head coach on January 1, with no public appearances scheduled for before that date. However, he's now set to represent the Three Lions for the first time next week when he attends the 2026 World Cup qualifying draw in Zurich, according to ESPN.

The 51-year-old will join a Football Association delegation in Switzerland when the European qualifying groups are confirmed on December 13. He is expected to speak to the media, marking his first responsibilities as England boss since his unveiling in October.

Sixteen European teams will qualify for the expanded 48-team World Cup finals in the United States, Mexico and Canada. England, who achieved promotion back to Nations League A under interim boss Lee Carsley, are one of the 12 top seeds in the draw.

Tuchel will be hoping for a comfortable qualification process as he attempts to take a talented group of players to World Cup glory. His first game in charge will be in March as their qualifying campaign gets underway.