Tuchel unhappy as anti-racism protocol questions overshadow Spain clash

Tuchel says his comments on anti-racism protocols were misrepresented ahead of England's Nations League match in Madrid on Sunday.

Thomas Tuchel insisted his words had been "twisted" after questions over anti-racism protocols dominated the build-up to England's Nations League clash against Spain in Madrid on Sunday.

When asked after England's win over Croatia how the team would respond to racist abuse, Tuchel said he would "maybe take five minutes" to remind players of anti-racism protocols and that he did "not expect" any abuse in Madrid. Former, former Spain manager Luis de la Fuente responded by stating "there is no racism in Spain," prompting Tuchel to clarify he had never accused Spain of racism but was answering a hypothetical question about protocols.

Tuchel stressed he always expects a friendly atmosphere and that his message had been misinterpreted. "I am the first person to stand up for these values," he said. England midfielder Declan Rice referenced past incidents in Montenegro and Bulgaria where the team experienced racist abuse, but said he was not expecting problems in Madrid. England can win Group A3 with victory over the world champions.