The incident involving Spence reportedly came during a practice exercise, when Tuchel called out the Tottenham Hotspur defender with a blunt “wake up”.
Watkins, who admitted he had made a mistake shortly beforehand, joked that he was fortunate not to be the player on the receiving end of the reprimand. Beneath the humour, though, the Aston Villa forward sees a clear message.
“Acho que mostra que ele é um vencedor e que está sempre elevando os padrões, garantindo que todos estejam ligados”, Watkins said.
The striker’s assessment is that Tuchel’s demands are not personal. They are part of a wider attempt to keep the entire squad alert, competitive and ready for the pressure of a World Cup campaign.
Watkins also describes a different side of Tuchel away from the pitch. The manager is reportedly intense during training but more relaxed around the squad at the team base.
That balance could prove important. England need authority from the technical area, but also a dressing-room atmosphere in which players remain confident rather than overawed. Tuchel’s record, including his Champions League success with Chelsea and league titles in France and Germany, gives his instructions considerable weight.
For Spence, the moment is a reminder that reputation offers no protection. A player selected for England must meet the same standards as everyone else.
England’s next test is Ghana on Tuesday. The result will reveal whether Tuchel’s relentless demands are already translating into sharper performances when the pressure moves from the training ground to the World Cup stage.