In 2015, Anthony Barry was a lower‑league player at Accrington Stanley and began coaching the club’s U16s. Eleven years later he sits beside Thomas Tuchel as England’s assistant, guiding the team toward a first men’s World Cup final since 1966 against Argentina on 20:00 BST.

Barry’s résumé spans elite clubs and national teams – from Chelsea to Bayern Munich, and assistant roles with Portugal and Belgium. A set‑piece specialist who analysed 17,000 throw‑ins for his Pro Licence, he partners with Tuchel as the “yin to the German’s yang”, often teasing the 8‑inch height difference.

The England camp values chemistry; with only 50 days of training, Barry stresses team spirit, “the petrol in the car”, saying the squad’s brotherhood is vital amid the US_Service’s 22‑day schedule. He and Tuchel have set an 18‑month vision to bring a club feel to the national side.

Known for candid half‑time TV talks, Barry says he is not a “half‑time star” but simply fulfilling his job. As England push toward the final, their partnership is judged on performance, not hype, with the ultimate goal of winning the biggest title.