England's disappointing performances in the tournament in South Africa has led to criticism of manager Fabio Capello, the players, the structure of the Premier League as well as increasing calls for a winter break.
However, Wenger believes the levels of expectation weighed heavily on the England camp.
"Many teams start slow in the group stage," he said.
"I remember in 2006, France were horrible in the group stage but they found momentum in the quarter-final and semi-final because they had no pressure any more.
"England suffered under pressure. They did not look sharp.
"Also England did not seem to be at the level to use their main strength - the huge pace they put in the game.
"Was that physical fatigue or a mental reason? I do not know but you never found the sense of English football in there."
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