England's opening FIFA World Cup 2026 Group L clash against Croatia carries an unusual subplot on the touchline. The match will be officiated by French referee Clement Turpin, one of Europe's most experienced officials. Turpin was once publicly labeled a 'Grade E' referee by England manager Thomas Tuchel after a heated Champions League encounter in 2023. Although both have moved on, their history has resurfaced ahead of this crucial fixture, placing extra attention on the official.
Why Thomas Tuchel Criticised Clement Turpin
The tension dates back to April 2023 when Tuchel managed Bayern Munich in the Champions League quarter-final second leg against Manchester City. Turpin officiated the match, which ended 1-1 and sealed City's 4-1 aggregate victory. The evening proved deeply frustrating for Tuchel. Turpin showed the Bayern coach two yellow cards and eventually sent him off. One caution came after Tuchel sarcastically applauded a decision involving Dayot Upamecano, who initially received a red card for fouling Erling Haaland before the decision was reversed for offside.
After the match, Tuchel fumed: 'Two things couldn't keep up with the level -- the pitch wasn't in good condition and also the referee, unfortunately, was Grade E. I'd give him a one out of 10. He was absolutely terrible. It's unbelievable at this level.' A second booking for protesting another decision sent Tuchel to the stands, making Turpin one of the few referees to dismiss the current England manager in a Champions League match.
Who Is Clement Turpin?
Despite that criticism, Turpin remains highly regarded. The 44-year-old Frenchman has officiated Ligue 1 since 2008 and became a FIFA-listed referee in 2010. The 2026 World Cup is his third, after Russia 2018 and Qatar 2022. His resume includes the 2021 Europa League final and the 2022 Champions League final, where Real Madrid beat Liverpool 1-0. He also refereed England's goalless draw against Slovenia at Euro 2024.
Tuchel's Stance Ahead of England vs Croatia
Although his 2023 comments continue to attract attention, Tuchel struck a diplomatic tone before the Croatia match. 'He's a top referee, and he was not happy with my behaviour, so he gave me a red card, and I was not happy with his performance. It's always better not to speak about the referee as a coach. It's maybe not always possible because it brings out emotion, and it was an emotional night. But if I get a red card, I don't hold it against the referee. We're fighting for the best outcome. I truly believe he's a top referee, which he proves at the highest level, and he will show it tomorrow.'
As England and Croatia renew their rivalry dating back to the 2018 World Cup semi-final, Turpin will once again be at the centre of a major international occasion, this time with one of his former critics watching from the opposite technical area.
