Thomas Tuchel Explains Why Bukayo Saka Was Dropped from England Squad
England boss Thomas Tuchel leaves out Bukayo Saka, Conor Gallagher, and Ollie Watkins for Andorra clash, citing fitness concerns and tactical focus ahead of crucial World Cup qualifier.
Thomas Tuchel has made a big call ahead of England’s World Cup qualifier against Andorra by dropping Bukayo Saka from his matchday squad. The Arsenal winger, a regular under former manager Gareth Southgate, has yet to feature for the Three Lions since Tuchel took charge and will now miss another opportunity to impress.
Saka, 23, had a strong season until a hamstring injury in November halted his momentum. He returned in April and helped Arsenal reach the Champions League semi-finals, but only managed three goals in 13 appearances post-injury. Tuchel revealed on Friday that the winger had completed just one full training session this week, casting doubt on his match fitness.
According to the BBC, the decision to leave Saka out is largely due to concerns over his readiness. His fitness struggles appear to be the main reason for his omission, rather than any tactical shift.
Also missing from the squad are Conor Gallagher, the Atletico Madrid midfielder, and Ollie Watkins, who has been nursing a minor injury. Watkins’ absence is thought to be precautionary.
Despite the missing names, England are expected to cruise past Andorra, who are currently ranked 173rd in the world. Tuchel, speaking ahead of his first away game as England manager, made it clear he wants nothing short of a dominant and “relentless” performance from his side.
“It will be on us to get going,” Tuchel said in his pre-match press conference. “We need to bring the energy, the tempo, and the attacking intent. I want us to be relentless.”
The German coach acknowledged the difficult timing of the international break, with many players just returning from short holidays and a demanding club season. But he praised the squad’s attitude, saying: “I feel that the group is happy to be here. We’re still new together, it’s only our second camp, but I have full trust we’ll do what’s needed.”
Tuchel warned against underestimating Andorra despite their underdog status. “It’s a World Cup qualifier. We must respect the opponent. Don’t expect it all to happen in the first 10 or 20 minutes — stay patient, stay focused.”
England have made a perfect start to their qualifying campaign, and Tuchel will be hoping to maintain that momentum with another win — even without Saka, Gallagher, and Watkins.
It remains to be seen whether Saka will be back in contention for England’s upcoming friendly against Senegal next week. For now, the Arsenal star will need to prove his fitness to get back into Tuchel’s plans.
