Tuchel's England Squad Shuffles: Bellingham, Foden Return, Grealish & Arnold Absent

Tuchel's England Squad Shuffles: Bellingham, Foden Return, Grealish & Arnold Absent

England manager Thomas Tuchel made some notable selections and omissions when naming his 23-man squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifier matches against Serbia and Albania in November. The most prominent returns are midfield dynamo Jude Bellingham and creative talent Phil Foden, both recalled after absences, while left-back Trent Alexander-Arnold and striker Jack Grealish are notably missing.

The Return of Bellingham and Foden

The recall of Bellingham and Foden comes after the pair impressed for their respective clubs, Real Madrid and Manchester City, in recent weeks. Tuchel indicated he sees Foden primarily as a central midfielder, moving away from his role as a winger during the last Euros. "A mix between a No 9 and No 10," Tuchel described Foden, adding that his primary task is securing a role in central areas. Bellingham is expected to play in his preferred No 10 position, operating behind Harry Kane.

The manager teased the possibility that both Bellingham and Foden are vying for the same advanced playmaker spot alongside Kane. This creates intrigue alongside established midfielders Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson, who are likely occupying deeper roles. Players like Morgan Gibbs-White face an uphill battle to break into the squad picture.

Alexander-Arnold and Grealish Out

Trent Alexander-Arnold, the club's record goalscorer and often considered one of England's best players, and Jack Grealish are left out of the initial 23. Their absences suggest Tuchel is favouring a more orthodox midfield structure and perhaps prioritizing other options at left-back or in the attacking lineup. This raises questions about the manager's philosophy and whether mavericks are having to prove themselves more than under previous regimes.

Midfield Intrigue and Other Selections

A surprise inclusion is Bournemouth defender Alex Scott, who adds to the competition for the deep-lying midfield role, which also includes Adam Wharton and the highly rated Elliot Anderson. Scott's selection signals that there might still be room for wildcard players as Tuchel finalises his World Cup plans.

The Striking Question

The striker position remains a concern, with only Harry Kane named alongside Ollie Watkins, who requires injury management. Other potential candidates like Danny Welbeck, Ivan Toney, Marcus Rashford, and Dominic Solanke are facing doubts or are sidelined. While Tuchel highlighted Anthony Gordon's importance despite fitness concerns, his pace could complement Kane's play.

With four matches left before the final squad is selected for the tournament, the current choices indicate Tuchel's evolving plans as England prepares for the expanded 2026 World Cup format.