Former Bayern Munich manager Thomas Tuchel has delivered a crucial warning to the England national team regarding captain Harry Kane's fitness ahead of their Euro 2024 opener against Serbia. The revelation comes at a critical moment for Gareth Southgate's squad as they prepare for their first Group C match.
Tuchel, who managed Kane during his final season at Bayern Munich, revealed the striker has been managing a significant back issue that required careful management throughout the latter part of the Bundesliga season. "He was already having treatment with us for his back," Tuchel stated, highlighting a concern that could jeopardise England's tournament ambitions.
The Nature of Kane's Injury
The injury, described as a chronic back problem, flared up significantly towards the end of the campaign, casting doubt on Kane's availability for the crucial opening match. Medical staff at Bayern Munich implemented a specialised treatment regimen to ensure the England captain could feature in their Champions League semi-final against Real Madrid.
Despite these efforts, the problem persisted, raising questions about whether Kane will be at full fitness when England face Serbia in Gelsenkirchen on Sunday evening.
Tuchel's Direct Message to Southgate
The German tactician didn't mince words when discussing the potential consequences. "If he has any pain now, he needs to be clever and not get involved in any hot situations," Tuchel advised, suggesting that rushing Kane back could have serious repercussions for England's campaign.
This warning presents Gareth Southgate with his first major selection dilemma of the tournament. The England manager must decide whether to risk his star striker from the outset or consider alternative options to avoid exacerbating the injury.
Implications for England's Euro 2024 Campaign
Harry Kane's potential absence or limited participation would represent a massive blow to England's hopes. As the team's captain and primary goal threat, his fitness could be the difference between an early exit and a serious challenge for the trophy.
The situation adds another layer of intrigue to what was already anticipated to be a challenging group stage for the Three Lions, with matches against Serbia, Denmark, and Slovenia awaiting them in Group C.
All eyes will now be on England's training sessions in the coming days as medical staff assess Kane's readiness for what promises to be a physically demanding encounter against a robust Serbian defence.
