Selection dilemmas facing Thomas Tuchel
England kick off their 2026 World Cup campaign against Croatia at the AT&T Stadium in Dallas on Wednesday, and head coach Thomas Tuchel faces a number of tough calls ahead of the Group L clash. Sky Sports' senior reporter Rob Dorsett has analysed all the big selection dilemmas, with the England boss still having final calls to make around key positions in midfield, on both wings, and at the heart of the defence.
The No.10 battle: Bellingham vs Rogers
The biggest area of contention has been the starting No.10 role, with Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers battling for the shirt. England's final friendly against Costa Rica saw Rogers given a chance, but Bellingham’s ability to cover ground defensively could prove decisive against a technically savvy Croatia midfield.
"If Tuchel needs athletes, he needs Bellingham. While both he and Rogers have quality on the ball, Bellingham's ability to get up and down the pitch off it needs to be factored in."
Wide options: Saka's fitness and left-wing tussle
On the right wing, Bukayo Saka is fit and ready, but Tuchel has admitted the Arsenal forward is not ready to play a full 90 minutes, which could open the door for Noni Madueke, who started the Costa Rica friendly. On the left, Anthony Gordon has made huge strides ahead of Marcus Rashford, though the Manchester United forward is reported to be in the best physical shape and mindset of his career.
Centre-back conundrum
Perhaps the biggest dilemma is at centre-back. For some time, Marc Guehi was considered a nailed-on starter, alongside either John Stones or Ezri Konsa. However, Tuchel partnered Konsa and Stones together against Costa Rica, raising uncertainty. A Stones-Guehi pairing would provide familiarity, with both playing regularly for Manchester City. Including Nico O'Reilly at left-back would make it a City trio in defence.
"Stones is the calm presence England need to command a backline with less major tournament experience than is desirable. Partnered with Man City team-mate Guehi, Tuchel can at least be assured of balance in and out of possession."
Sky Sports writers' verdicts
The Sky Sports team have weighed in with their preferred XIs for the Croatia clash. All agree that Bellingham should start in the No.10 role, citing his athleticism and big-game experience. There is strong support for Gordon on the left after his impressive cameo against Costa Rica, though some still favour Rashford's end product. At centre-back, the majority opt for the Stones-Guehi partnership, with Konsa seen as a capable alternative if Stones isn't fully sharp. Saka is backed to start on the right, but with a plan to manage his minutes.
Key Takeaways
- The No.10 battle is between Bellingham and Rogers, with Bellingham likely to get the nod for his defensive work-rate.
- Saka is fit but will not complete 90 minutes, so Madueke could feature from the bench.
- Gordon's recent form gives him the edge over Rashford, though the latter is in peak physical condition.
- The centre-back pairing remains uncertain, but Stones and Guehi offer the most familiarity and balance.
- Tuchel's selections will be crucial against a technically skilled Croatia side led by the evergreen Luka Modric.
Quick Facts
Match: England vs Croatia, World Cup 2026 Group L
Venue: AT&T Stadium, Dallas, Texas
Kick-off: Wednesday, 21:00 BST
Key dilemma: No.10 role – Bellingham or Rogers
Defensive uncertainty: Stones & Guehi vs Stones & Konsa
