Thomas Tuchel's England controversy takes fresh twist as Bukayo Saka 'likes' critical post

England star Bukayo Saka found himself at the centre of an unexpected social media controversy after appearing to like a post that criticised head coach Thomas Tuchel, just hours after the Three Lions defeated France to finish third at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

The incident came after England bounced back from their heartbreaking semi-final defeat to Argentina with an entertaining 6-4 victory over France in the third-place playoff. Saka stole the show with a stunning hat-trick, helping Tuchel's side end their World Cup campaign on a winning note.

However, the Arsenal winger's activity on social media soon grabbed attention, adding another chapter to the ongoing scrutiny surrounding Tuchel's tenure as England manager.

Also Read: Saka scores hat-trick as England secures Bronze in 2026 World Cup thriller

Bukayo Saka appears to like post criticising Thomas Tuchel

Following England's win, fans noticed that Saka's official account had liked a post from social media account albertsairpods, which praised Arsenal players while suggesting Tuchel remained "on fraud watch."

The post read:

"We really walked away with a Bukayo Saka World Cup hat-trick. Against France. You just escaped the nastiest public humiliation ritual. The cultural capital of six Arsenal G/A with zero injuries has decreased your punishment to a mere spanking. You're still on fraud watch."

The phrase "fraud watch" was widely interpreted as criticism of Thomas Tuchel despite England securing third place after their disappointing semi-final exit.

The interaction quickly went viral, with supporters debating whether Bukayo Saka had intentionally liked the post or whether it had been accidental.

Like disappears after fans notice social media activity

Not long after screenshots of the interaction circulated online, the like was removed from Saka's account.

Neither the England winger nor his representatives have commented on the incident, leaving it unclear whether the interaction was deliberate or simply an accidental tap while browsing social media.

The development comes at a time when Tuchel continues to face questions over his future despite the Football Association backing the German following England's World Cup campaign.

Thomas Tuchel had been heavily criticised after England surrendered a late lead to Argentina in the semi-finals before eventually losing 2-1, prompting many supporters to question his tactical approach and in-game management.

England, however, responded with an impressive attacking display against France, led by Bukayo Saka's hat-trick alongside goals from Declan Rice, Ezri Konsa, and Jude Bellingham.

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While the victory helped England finish their campaign on a positive note, Saka's brief social media activity has once again placed Tuchel under the spotlight, with the England manager continuing to face scrutiny despite ending the tournament with a third-place finish.