England manager Thomas Tuchel has revealed that Bukayo Saka is unlikely to start the World Cup 2026 group stage match against Ghana on Tuesday, as the winger continues to be carefully managed following an Achilles problem.
Tuchel's Cautious Approach with Saka
Saka has been nursing the injury that hampered him during the closing months of Arsenal's Premier League-winning campaign. The 24-year-old stated the condition has improved since March, but he only appeared as a 72nd-minute substitute in England's 4-2 victory over Croatia in Dallas. Tuchel, working alongside the FA medical team, is prioritising Saka's long-term fitness over an immediate return to the starting XI.
"Bukayo is ready and will get more and more ready," Tuchel said. "Once we get to the last game in the group it is the moment. He was strong yesterday in training in small spaces. It's just a matter of if the game is open and up and down."
The cautious approach means Saka is being lined up to start the final Group C match against Panama, with England already in a strong position after their opening win.
Madueke Steps Up on the Right Wing
Saka's absence from the starting line-up opens the door for Noni Madueke to retain his place. The Arsenal winger delivered an eye-catching World Cup debut against Croatia, winning the penalty that led to England's first goal and creating several dangerous chances. For much of the first half, he was England's brightest attacking threat.
Tuchel admitted the 24-year-old's performance has given him plenty to consider, especially with the depth of options out wide.
Tuchel's Selection Headache on the Flanks
The England boss also praised the impact of substitutes Marcus Rashford and Saka in the second half against Croatia. Rashford replaced Antony Gordon and scored England's fourth goal, underlining the fierce competition for places.
"Always," Tuchel said when asked if those displays had given him selection dilemmas. "All four of them, the wingers. The level they are competing at was the highest level, especially in the last week. We had some difficult decisions to make."
Despite the depth, Tuchel emphasised the importance of squad unity, noting that every player must be ready to contribute from the start or off the bench across a four-week tournament.
England's Entertaining New Identity
Tuchel is determined for England to maintain the attacking verve they displayed in the second half against Croatia, when they had 22 shots and 36 touches in the opposition box. The manager spoke of wanting to entertain fans watching back home.
"I had a thought in the second half – oh, the people in the pubs they will like this!" Tuchel said. "That's what's needed to be done. Nobody can guarantee the outcome, but we can guarantee the effort."
Emotional scenes after the match saw players like Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham singing along with supporters to Oasis' 'Wonderwall', building a connection Tuchel hopes will carry the team deep into the tournament.
Key Takeaways
- Saka's recovery is on track: The winger is improving but will be held back until the Panama game to avoid aggravating his Achilles.
- Madueke seizes his chance: The Arsenal man impressed on his World Cup debut and is set to start against Ghana.
- Winger depth is a luxury: Tuchel has difficult decisions, with Rashford and Saka pushing for starts after impactful substitute appearances.
- England's attacking style: The manager wants his side to continue playing with energy and freedom, believing fans will appreciate the entertainment.
Quick Facts
Injury: Achilles (ongoing management)
Likely return to start: vs Panama (final group game)
England vs Ghana: Tuesday, 23 June 2026
Kick-off and venue: To be confirmed
TV/Stream: Details not yet announced for UK viewers