Trent Alexander-Arnold's prospects of representing England under Thomas Tuchel appear increasingly uncertain after the Real Madrid full-back was overlooked for a World Cup call-up. Despite an injury to Tino Livramento, Tuchel opted to bring in central defender Trevoh Chalobah instead, citing tactical flexibility.
Tuchel explained his decision: 'We called Trevoh Chalobah because then we free up Jarell Quansah as full-back on both sides and Djed Spence can play both sides as full-back, so Trevoh comes as a centre back alternative and gives us full coverage in the back four.' The German coach has consistently left Alexander-Arnold out of his squads, raising questions about the 27-year-old's role in the national team.
Speaking about his earlier omission from March friendlies, Tuchel acknowledged the difficulty of the decision but emphasised a shift in game model. 'We created a slightly different game model when he was not in camp... built on intensity, built on positivity, built even in the profile of the right full-back on overlaps on underlaps, very intense,' he said. 'So it was a slightly different profile of players who were with us in camp and who performed so well.'
Tuchel has also voiced concerns over Alexander-Arnold's defensive capabilities. In August, he stated: 'If he wants to have this impact in the English national team, then he has to take the defensive part very, very seriously. Because when we are talking, especially about qualifying football, and then tournament football, the one defensive error... can be the moment where you pack your suitcases and go home.'
The decision to call up Chalobah was also influenced by logistics, as the Chelsea defender was already in the United States. According to Sky Sports, FA chiefs were unaware of Alexander-Arnold's whereabouts, raising doubts about whether he could reach the team's Kansas City training camp in time. With Tuchel at the helm, Alexander-Arnold's path back to the England squad appears increasingly challenging.
