Bukayo Saka is in a race against time to prove his fitness for England's crucial World Cup opener against Croatia. The Arsenal winger was only a substitute in the final warm-up friendly against Costa Rica due to an ongoing Achilles issue. England manager Thomas Tuchel revealed that Saka has not been able to train every day, has been playing through the pain barrier, and requires close monitoring.
Saka's Fitness Battle
Despite the setback, Saka is working hard to be ready for what is arguably England's toughest group game. A victory against Croatia in Dallas next Wednesday would significantly boost their progress. However, competition for places is fierce, and there is no doubt Saka will struggle to start every game.
Noni Madueke, a huge Tuchel favourite, has trained exceptionally well and started against Costa Rica, putting him ahead in the battle for the starting berth. The decision between Saka and Madueke remains tight, with both Arsenal players vying for the spot.
Bellingham vs Rogers for No10 Role
There is growing belief among players that Jude Bellingham will get the nod ahead of Morgan Rogers for the starting No10 role against Croatia. Tuchel described Bellingham as being in a “sweet spot,” training well, looking sharp, and possessing a strong mindset. Given the climate, both players are likely to get minutes, but the Real Madrid star appears to be in pole position.
Centre-Back Selection Dilemma
John Stones and Ezri Konsa impressed Tuchel as his starting central defensive pair against Costa Rica, boosting their chances. Marc Guehi has been a favourite to start alongside one of them, but the competition is high. Tuchel is a huge fan of both Konsa and Stones, and it may be significant that he paired them in the Costa Rica friendly.
Speaking earlier about Saka, Tuchel said: “Bukayo is just not there yet. Some things are missing, consecutive training. They took very good care of him and were very aware of it at Arsenal, and we will do a little bit the same. So, step by step, he is at the moment not able to do every training session through the week and then play. He is still going to be managed.”
“They decided together, Bukayo and Arsenal, to let him play through his pain and discomfort, even if it was not possible to train the whole week in the build ups. He was decisive in the second leg against Atletico Madrid to bring them to the final, he played the final. But like I said, he was managed in between, and this is what we do.”
“The player and his needs and health are always first, so what we are doing now, we were monitoring on his week off and now we are bringing him back on the pitch.”
