England face Spain in their Nations League opener at Wembley tonight, with Thomas Tuchel making notable changes to his squad. Declan Rice has pulled out, while Trent Alexander-Arnold returns to the camp after a lengthy absence.
The world champions are playing for the first time since beating Argentina in the World Cup final in the United States. Spain won the Nations League in 2023 and beat England in the Euro 2024 final, the last meeting between the two nations.
Tuchel's Selection Surprises
Tuchel has sprung surprises with his squad, including the return of Alexander-Arnold. England finished third in the World Cup, beating France in a play-off days after losing to Argentina in the semi-finals. The Express Sport team have named the starting line-ups they would select to secure a win over Spain.
Charlie Malam suggests England should go full strength for the glamour match, with Rice's withdrawal giving Tuchel the chance to start Alex Scott, who is better on the ball. Malam would pick Lewis Hall at left-back over Nico O'Reilly, and Ezri Konsa at right-back, with Jarrad Branthwaite rewarded for his Everton form.
Midfield and Attack Picks
Amos Murphy expects a starting XI similar to the World Cup, with Marc Guehi and Konsa in central defence. In Rice's absence, Alex Scott could make a senior debut, with Elliot Anderson, Jude Bellingham, Anthony Gordon, Bukayo Saka, and Harry Kane all involved.
Archie Griggs argues a win over the reigning world champions would salvage pride for England, and Tuchel should avoid experimenting. Griggs would favour Konsa at right-back over Alexander-Arnold, with Branthwaite in central defence and Scott starting in midfield.
Alexander-Arnold's Opportunity
Jack McEachen believes Tuchel has extended an olive branch to Alexander-Arnold, who will be desperate to prove himself. McEachen would start Alexander-Arnold at right-back, with Myles Lewis-Skelly in midfield and Morgan Rogers on the left over Gordon.
Spain's Luis de la Fuente side won the Nations League in 2023 and beat England in the Euro 2024 final. England are looking to bounce back from their World Cup exit, with the match at Wembley serving as a chance to lay down a marker.
