Gary Neville has expressed concerns over Bukayo Saka's performances for England at the 2026 World Cup, with the Arsenal star showing signs of fatigue and discomfort. Speaking on the latest episode of the Stick to Football from The Overlap, Neville said: 'Bukayo Saka doesn't look right at all. He's usually the boy that's bubbling and smiling, he's got that competitive edge to him, but he's not right and that's a concern to us I think.'
Saka's Fitness Issues and Limited Game Time
Saka has been dealing with an Achilles injury that was monitored by Arsenal during the final weeks of last season. Since linking up with the Three Lions squad, his minutes have been managed, leading to him being named on the bench for England's opening World Cup games against Croatia and Ghana. He made his first start of the tournament in the 2-0 win over Panama, being substituted in the 63rd minute shortly after Jude Bellingham's opening goal.
Arsenal legend Ian Wright echoed Neville's concerns, wondering if Saka has been brought back into action too early. Wright said: 'Has Bukayo Saka been rushed back? We're going into a World Cup, and still not starting the first few games. Only starting when we're three games in, and still isn't looking like the Saka that we know – this guy needs a break.'
England's World Cup Campaign and Injury Woes
England manager Thomas Tuchel has already faced injury setbacks, with Tino Livramento withdrawn from the squad before the tournament and Reece James sidelined with a hamstring injury, missing the victory over Panama. England finished top of Group L and will face DR Congo in the round of 32 on Tuesday evening in Atlanta. A victory would set up a last-16 tie against either Mexico or Ecuador in Mexico City.
Canada became the first team to book their place in the last-16 with a dramatic last-minute win over South Africa in their round of 32 tie on Sunday evening.
