menu of England Thomas Tuchel hinted at it Bukayo Saka may start on the bench again when the Three Lions face Ghana in their second Group L game at 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Arsenal winger made a significant impact as a substitute during England’s 4-2 win over Croatia, setting up Marcus Rashford’s late goal shortly after entering the contest.
However, Tuchel appears determined to manage the 24-year-old’s job carefully as he continues to recover from his Achilles problem.
Saka played through discomfort during Arsenal’s successful Premier League title campaign, but England’s coaching staff are prioritizing his long-term fitness for the later stages of the tournament.
Tuchel provides a fitness update
Speaking ahead of the clash with Ghana, Tuchel said Saka is progressing well but is not yet ready to start regularly.
“Bukayo is fit and he will be fitter and fitter. I think he will be ready when we go to the last game in this group,” said the England coach.
Medical assessments have reportedly shown that the winger’s Achilles tendinitis has not worsened since the end of the domestic season, although England do not want to take any unnecessary risks.
A cautious approach could have seen Arsenal team-mate Noni Madueke retain his place on the right side of attack after impressing in the tournament opener.
A test from Ghana awaits him
England travel to Boston for a crucial game against Ghana, who opened their World Cup campaign with a 1-0 win over Panama.
A second straight win would guarantee England a place in the round of 16 ahead of their final group stage game against Panama.
While Saka is expected to feature at some point against the Black Stars, Tuchel’s latest comments suggest the Arsenal star could once again be used as an impact substitute rather than risked from the start.
