Who is England vs Croatia referee? Thomas Tuchel faces reunion with official he called 'absolutely terrible'

England begin their World Cup 2026 campaign in Dallas this Wednesday against Croatia. Manager Thomas Tuchel is expected to implement a major change to the starting XI, having kept the squad guessing regarding the final lineup. Additionally, Tuchel faces a reunion with the match official, whom he previously described as absolutely terrible. The appointment of this specific referee for the opening fixture is unlikely to have pleased the England manager ahead of the clash.