Thomas Tuchel faces big England decisions before World Cup

March 20, 2026 Oliver Obel

Thomas Tuchel’s next England squad announcement will offer one of the clearest indications yet of how his World Cup plans are taking shape, with only a handful of positions still genuinely up for debate.

England breezed through qualifying with a perfect record, a campaign BBC Sport highlighted as being built on consistency and a largely unchanged lineup. That stability has helped Tuchel establish a clear core, with players such as Jordan Pickford, Declan Rice and Harry Kane expected to form the spine of the team heading into the tournament.

But beyond that settled group, competition remains intense in several areas most notably in attacking midfield.

Battle for creativity behind Kane

The fight to operate behind Harry Kane is arguably the most complex selection dilemma Tuchel faces.

Morgan Rogers has emerged as a trusted option, starting five of England’s eight qualifying matches and delivering consistent performances. However, Jude Bellingham’s return from injury complicates the picture. The Real Madrid midfielder, widely regarded as one of the world’s best in his position, has not featured since early February as he recovers from a hamstring issue.

Tuchel has suggested he will not force star players into the same lineup at the expense of balance, saying: “Rather than finding positions for my best players just so that I can have them on the field, I prefer to put everyone in their best positions and have some competition.”

That philosophy leaves the door open for tough calls, especially with Phil Foden and Cole Palmer also in contention. Palmer has seen limited game time under Tuchel so far, while Foden’s role remains fluid after being deployed in a more advanced, makeshift striking role during the last international window.

Uncertainty in central defence

Questions also remain at the back.

John Stones is highly valued by Tuchel but has struggled for consistent fitness, limiting his involvement since the manager’s arrival. Ezri Konsa, by contrast, has been a regular presence and appears likely to feature prominently.

Marc Guehi, who impressed at Euro 2024 according to BBC Sport, is another strong option, while Harry Maguire’s improved club form has brought him back into contention, offering experience in tournament settings.

Left-back still unresolved

One of England’s longest-standing issues the lack of a nailed-on left-back persists.

Tuchel has rotated through several options during qualifying, including Myles Lewis-Skelly and Tino Livramento, without settling on a definitive solution. Lewis Hall, who has recently returned from injury, could yet play his way into contention if he impresses in the upcoming friendlies.

Support role behind Kane under scrutiny

Providing cover for Kane remains another open question.

Ollie Watkins has filled that role in recent years but has seen his form dip, while Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Danny Welbeck offer alternative profiles. Welbeck, in particular, has enjoyed a productive season and brings valuable experience despite his long absence from international football.

Final auditions ahead of tournament

With friendlies against Uruguay and Japan approaching, Tuchel’s selections will serve as a final audition for those on the fringes.

Much of the starting XI may already be in place, but the composition of the wider squad and the balance between form, fitness and tactical fit is still being decided.

Sources: BBC Sport