Tuchel Faces Key Decisions as saka and Bellingham return to England Squad
LONDON – England manager Thomas Tuchel is weighing how to best reintegrate Bukayo Saka and Jude Bellingham into his starting lineup ahead of upcoming fixtures against wales and Latvia. Both players return to teh squad with varying levels of recent game time, presenting Tuchel with crucial decisions as he aims to solidify his preferred XI with limited opportunities before World Cup preparations begin.
Tuchel recently apologised for describing Bellingham’s on-field behavior as “repulsive,” clarifying he used the word “unintentionally” and having spoken with the Real Madrid player directly. Bellingham has made only one start for Real Madrid as recovering from injury, perhaps influencing Tuchel’s approach to managing his minutes during the international break. Saka, meanwhile, recently returned from hamstring and fitness issues for Arsenal, scoring in their 2-0 win over Olympiacos on Wednesday. He has played only one game under Tuchel, a 3-1 defeat by Senegal in June.
The central question revolves around how Tuchel accommodates both bellingham and Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers, both of whom favour the most advanced role in a three-man midfield. Rogers has impressed Tuchel in his four matches in charge, playing in multiple positions including a deeper midfield role, the right wing, as a striker against Senegal, and his preferred number 10 position, notably providing an assist for Noni Madueke’s goal in a recent 5-0 win.
Competition also exists on the right wing, where Saka faces a challenge from Arsenal teammate Noni Madueke, who has been a standout performer under Tuchel but is currently injured. Tuchel also likes Marcus Rashford on the left wing, potentially limiting Rogers’ opportunities despite his versatility. Tuchel will be keen to establish his strongest starting eleven, with only three international breaks remaining before full World Cup readiness commences. Saka’s 12 goals for England place him third in the squad’s scoring charts, behind Harry Kane (74) and Rashford (18), highlighting his importance as a reliable goal threat.
