Tuchel emphasizes tactical balance over star power for England’s World Cup plans

Thursday 13 November 2025 - 11:20

By: Dakir Madiha

Tuchel emphasizes tactical balance over star power for England’s World Cup plans

England manager Thomas Tuchel has made a bold statement ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, declaring that Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, and Phil Foden cannot all start together in his preferred system. This surprising revelation signals a significant departure from previous strategies, placing England's top talents under scrutiny as the tournament approaches.

Tuchel, speaking to TalkSport on Wednesday, explained the tactical constraints of his 4-2-3-1 system. "For now, in this structure, they cannot play together," he said. “They can, but not in this setup. It’s about the balance we’ve developed, which also includes wingers who specialize in their positions."

The announcement comes as England prepares for World Cup qualifiers against Serbia on Thursday and Albania on Sunday, having already secured their spot in next summer’s finals. Tuchel’s system features defined roles: a number 6, an 8, a 10, and a 9, leaving limited space for England’s abundance of attacking talent.

Tactical shift raises competition for key roles

Tuchel’s approach has created opportunities for other players, with Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers emerging as a direct rival to Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham for the number 10 role. Rogers impressed in recent matches, notably scoring in England’s 5-0 victory over Serbia last September. “Morgan Rogers has been fantastic for us in that position,” Tuchel said.

The tactical dilemma follows England’s performance at Euro 2024, where they reached the final but lost 2-1 to Spain. While Kane scored three goals and Bellingham contributed two goals and an assist during the tournament, Foden faced criticism after failing to register a single goal involvement.

Tuchel emphasized that team balance will take precedence over individual reputations. “Rather than forcing the best players onto the field, it’s better to have everyone in their strongest positions and foster healthy competition,” he stated.

Tough decisions ahead for World Cup selection

Tuchel also hinted at difficult choices regarding squad composition, suggesting he is unlikely to take five attacking midfielders to the tournament. Foden, Bellingham, Rogers, Cole Palmer, and Morgan Gibbs-White are all competing for limited spots. “I see a very slim chance of bringing five number 10s to a tournament. It wouldn’t help us,” Tuchel explained.

However, Foden’s versatility may give him an edge. Tuchel praised the Manchester City playmaker, noting his ability to adapt as a false nine or even in deeper roles. “If you’re a unique player, you can play across multiple positions. He can play as a nine or a 10, which gives him an advantage,” he added.

Since taking charge in January on an 18-month contract, Tuchel has maintained consistency in England’s lineup. The team has been in dominant form, winning their last four matches with an aggregate score of 15-0. As preparations intensify for the World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Tuchel’s focus on tactical precision could define England’s campaign next summer.