sport
controversial
informative

Thomas Tuchel faces tough decisions with 35-man England squad ahead of the World Cup

Mar 19, 2026, 1:16 PM60
(Update: Mar 20, 2026, 8:00 PM)
English footballer (born 1993)
English footballer
English association football player
American film and television actor (1928–2014)
sovereign state in South America
island country in East Asia

Thomas Tuchel faces tough decisions with 35-man England squad ahead of the World Cup

  • Thomas Tuchel has named a 35-man England squad for two upcoming friendlies.
  • Harry Maguire and Kobbie Mainoo are included, while Ollie Watkins and Trent Alexander-Arnold are left out.
  • The squad's formation indicates Tuchel's strategy to evaluate players before finalizing the World Cup team.
Share opinion
Tip: Add insight, not just a reaction
6

Story

In preparation for upcoming friendlies against Uruguay and Japan, Thomas Tuchel, the England manager, has announced a 35-man squad. This squad features notable inclusions like Harry Maguire and Kobbie Mainoo, who are returning for the first time under Tuchel's management, while experienced players Ollie Watkins and Trent Alexander-Arnold have been omitted. This decision reflects Tuchel's strategy to test fringe players ahead of the World Cup. Furthermore, with injuries affecting other key players, including Reece James, the squad reflects a blend of reliance on established players and potential new talent. Tuchel's approach aims to assess competition among players fighting for positions on the World Cup squad, allowing for a unique dual camp setup where some players rest before the friendlies. With the World Cup approaching rapidly, Tuchel is focused on maximizing the squad's performance in these last games before final selections are made.

2026 All rights reserved