Ben White returns but must rebuild trust, says Tuchel

March 27, 2026 Oliver Obel

Thomas Tuchel has welcomed Ben White back into the England setup, but says the defender must address unresolved issues within the squad following his long international absence.

White has not played for England since March 2022 and left the World Cup camp in Qatar later that year. At the time, the BBC reported his departure was due to “personal reasons” after a disagreement with assistant coach Steve Holland.

Now back in contention ahead of this summer’s World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada, the Arsenal defender has been given what Tuchel described as a fresh opportunity but not without expectations.

“I think everyone deserves a second chance,” Tuchel said, making clear he is focused on moving forward rather than revisiting past disputes.

The England manager added that while he has not looked closely into the details of what happened, reintegration into the group will be key. He expects White to reconnect with teammates, particularly those who were part of the Qatar squad.

When approached about a return, Tuchel said White did not hesitate.

“Once I asked Ben if he would be ready to play for me and for England he straight away, and without hesitation, said he would love that,” Tuchel explained, describing the defender’s reaction as emotional and enthusiastic.

White’s recall was helped in part by a late injury to Jarrell Quansah, but Tuchel also pointed to the defender’s attitude in camp and his versatility across the back line as important factors.

“The way he behaves and has trained in camp has been very good and shows his quality,” he said.

England face Uruguay and Japan at Wembley in their final friendlies before Tuchel names his World Cup squad, with competition for places intensifying across multiple positions.

That competition has already led to difficult decisions. Trent Alexander-Arnold has again been left out, with Tuchel acknowledging the call may be viewed as harsh.

“It’s a sporting decision,” he said. “Maybe to a certain degree unfair, but these choices have to be made.”

Tuchel confirmed he had spoken directly with Alexander-Arnold to explain the situation, adding: “He just has to accept it.”

Further forward, Cole Palmer is also under pressure to secure his place. The Chelsea midfielder returns after injury but faces strong competition in the number 10 role from players such as Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden.

“We have more evidence without him than with him, so the pressure is on him,” Tuchel said.

“He needs to understand he fights for his place, and we will not hand anything to anyone on a silver platter.”

With several players competing for limited spots, Tuchel’s selections suggest that past reputation alone will not be enough and that includes White, whose return now depends as much on rebuilding trust as it does on performance.

Sources: BBC