I don't understand why this is a big deal?

English media and some fans aren't happy because their manager Thomas Tuchel has said he won't sing their national anthem before their World Cup game against Croatia on Wednesday.

I don't understand the big deal?

He's German, why would he sing another country's anthem?? It would actually be a bit weird if he did.

I agree with you 100%, I get some weird looks when I don't sing the American national anthem and even angry looks once or twice.

He kept his word tonight

I really can't say I blame him or anyone for not singing it - it's a bloody boring song about an unelected head of state and nothing about the country, or its people who, for some strange reason want to be subjected to being ruled over by someone they (probably) will never meet and who will never even know their names.

Totally agree he shouldn’t sing the anthem of another nation to his own; and he gave it the respect it deserved by not booing it either (unlike his supporters would have done to his anthem)!

I can only imagine that the media are looking for a response from their readers/listeners. It really is a no story. I totally agree it would be more weird if he did sing the national anthem.....but there again, aren't the Royal Family German ?