Thomas Tuchel has made bold selection calls for England's 2026 World Cup campaign, omitting Phil Foden, Cole Palmer and Trent Alexander-Arnold while including Ivan Toney. The German manager, tasked with ending 60 years of hurt, aims to 'put a second star on the shirt' but admits England are not among the favourites.
Jude Bellingham's role remains a key question. The Real Madrid midfielder could be decisive if in the right mood, but Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers has impressed Tuchel with his counterpressing and could start ahead of Bellingham. Rogers, 23, says he still plays with the freedom he had as a child.
England cruised through qualifying with eight wins, 22 goals scored and none conceded, but tougher tests await in knockout ties. Tuchel has implemented a 4-2-3-1 system with Declan Rice anchoring midfield alongside Elliot Anderson, who has solved the long-standing partner question.
Harry Kane remains the team's inspiration and leader, despite doubts after Euro 2024. Tuchel needs the Bayern Munich striker fresh for a strong World Cup run. Defensive options and fitness concerns over key players are lingering issues.
Tuchel, an anglophile who won the Champions League with Chelsea, has extended his contract through Euro 2028. His first foray into international management will be judged on whether he can create the right tournament environment, as Gareth Southgate did.
