Get ready for a seismic shift in the World Cup's social scene! England's WAGs (Wives and Girlfriends) are adopting a decidedly low-key approach for this tournament in the United States – a far cry from the infamous gatherings of yesteryear. Gone are the champagne-fuelled benders, replaced by a more private, family-focused atmosphere that's music to the ears of team manager Thomas Tuchel.
According to sources within the Football Association, only around half of the squad will be reunited with their families in Dallas for the initial phase of the competition. A combination of intricate travel logistics, the lengthy tournament schedule, and the significant costs involved have all contributed to a significantly smaller travelling party compared to the Qatar World Cup four years ago.
The advance guard of partners who did travel shortly after the squad's departure two weeks ago are currently enjoying Miami's sun-kissed vibes. This strategic decision allows them to soak up some downtime with the players during their training camp in nearby Palm Beach, before flying in on match days to support England in Kansas City, Boston, and New York.
Tuchel is set to follow in Gareth Southgate's footsteps by granting players some time with their families in the stadium following matches, but a new rule under his leadership means they won't be allowed to meet up the day after. This change has contributed to the partners' preference for returning to Florida – and it's clear that this generation of WAGs is prioritising family life over the paparazzi circus.
Fast-forwarding to 2006, when Baden-Baden became a media magnet due to the high-profile antics of England's players' partners (led by the iconic Victoria Beckham and Cheryl Cole), it's clear that times have changed. Today's crop of WAGs – including Harry Kane's wife Katie Goodland and Bukayo Saka's partner Tolami Benson, who works in advertising – are focused on their own careers and family lives.