England’s World Cup Aspirations: Key Players Set to Miss Out

England has officially qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, aiming for their first title since 1966. Following a recent match against Albania, the Three Lions will not compete again until the international break in March. Head coach Thomas Tuchel will soon finalize his squad for the tournament, which means some notable players could be left behind.

The decision-making process for Tuchel is complex. He can only select 26 players for the World Cup, which has led to tough choices regarding who will make the trip across the Atlantic to the United States. Despite having left Jude Bellingham out of the October squad, he is expected to be included in the final lineup for next summer. However, other high-profile players may not be so fortunate.

Several players find themselves on the chopping block. Dan Burn, currently seen as a backup option, lacks the elite status required for a place in the squad, especially when compared to other left-backs such as Myles Lewis-Skelly and Luke Shaw. His inclusion primarily hinges on set-piece capabilities, which may not justify his selection.

Midfield is another area where Tuchel will have to make difficult decisions. Both Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Morgan Gibbs-White appear to be on the outside looking in. With emerging talents like Elliot Anderson making their mark, the competition is fierce. Tuchel seems poised to prioritize players who are currently in form, which could exclude both Loftus-Cheek and Gibbs-White.

In attack, Ollie Watkins has struggled with consistency at Aston Villa, which may lead to his omission unless he can regain his scoring form. The competition is fierce, and Tuchel cannot afford to travel with players who are not performing at their peak.

Defensively, Harry Maguire faces a similar predicament. Despite his past contributions to the national team, he has not been a regular starter at Manchester United, raising concerns about his readiness for the World Cup. His teammate Kobbie Mainoo might also miss out due to limited playing time.

The depth of talent within the England squad poses a challenge for Tuchel. Players such as Ivan Toney, who previously provided reliable backup to Harry Kane, have seen their chances dwindle due to a move to Saudi Arabia. Meanwhile, veteran striker Jordan Henderson may find himself sidelined as Tuchel looks to younger, more dynamic options.

As Tuchel prepares for a crucial tournament, the decisions he makes could significantly impact England’s chances of success in North America. With a wealth of talent available, the competition for spots is intense, and some familiar faces may not be making the trip.