England manager Thomas Tuchel has made a bold declaration about his plans for the 2026 World Cup, confirming he already knows the majority of his starting lineup for the tournament's opening game.
A Clear Hierarchy for 2026
Speaking at Tottenham's training ground, Tuchel revealed a striking level of certainty about his future team selection. He confirmed he already has eight of his eleven starting players in mind for England's first match in America next summer.
"If it started tomorrow that is about right," Tuchel told Daily Mail Sport when questioned about the eight confirmed starters. "I think that is a good thing and I think the players in May or June should know it. It is the situation at the moment."
The German manager believes this clarity benefits the entire squad. "Anything can change at a tournament but it's good to be clear with the players," he explained. "Because when someone arrives he knows either 'I am the one to defend my position or I am the one to challenge the guy in the position.'"
Established Core and Emerging Challengers
The established spine of Tuchel's team currently includes: Jordan Pickford, Reece James, Marc Guehi, Ezri Konsa, Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson, Bukayo Saka, and Harry Kane.
However, significant questions remain over three positions: left-back, number ten, and left-side midfield. The rapid emergence of Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers in the attacking midfield role has been particularly notable, matched only by Elliot Anderson's securing of the central midfield spot alongside Rice.
This accelerated evolution since Gareth Southgate's departure has created intense competition, with even established stars facing uncertainty about their places.
No Guarantees for Big Names
Tuchel's meritocratic approach means no player's position is safe, regardless of reputation. Jude Bellingham's starting role is under genuine threat from Rogers, who may only miss Thursday's friendly against Serbia due to a minor injury.
Perhaps more surprisingly, Phil Foden's place in the squad itself appears uncertain. Tuchel suggested the Manchester City player's greatest asset might be his versatility, potentially making him a substitute rather than a starter.
"Tuchel felt a spark had gone from Foden's eyes at the end of last season," the report noted, "and, now that it has returned, other players have simply swept by the 2024 double player of the year winner."
The manager remains unmoved by external debates about his treatment of high-profile players like Bellingham, viewing the Real Madrid star as simply one of many options available to him.
Sticking to His Principles
Tuchel also stood by his recent comments about the Wembley crowd atmosphere, demonstrating his commitment to speaking his mind regardless of criticism.
"Do I regret saying it about the fans? No. It was a genuine reaction," he stated. "If you go in life and you only say [what people want to hear] then you become a fish. You dribble around every corner just to avoid [offence]. I am not a fish."
England's comprehensive 5-0 victory over Serbia in Belgrade last September marked a turning point in Tuchel's tenure, following three disappointing performances against Andorra and Senegal.
That Senegal match at the City Ground notably featured Bellingham's emotional outburst, kicking a water bucket and confronting officials, which prompted Tuchel to publicly describe some of the player's behaviour as "repulsive."
As England prepare to face Serbia again at Wembley, Tuchel emphasised the importance of squad harmony. "Everyone is happy to be in camp and the attitude and energy on the training pitches is where we want it to be," he said. "This is at the moment where we are and it's very precious to keep that."
