Who’s on England’s plane? How Tuchel’s squad is shaping up for World Cup…

Key Takeaways:

• Thomas Tuchel consistently chose five center-backs and five central midfielders.
• Number 10s are notably absent from his squad.
• The pattern of selecting these positions was evident as early as March.
• There have been minor variations (four or five players) in previous squads.
• All signs point to the 2026 World Cup as the ultimate objective.

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Continuity in Squad Selection

Thomas Tuchel’s approach to assembling England’s World Cup roster has been relatively unchanged since he first took charge. Not including number 10s in his plans, he has repeatedly selected five center-backs and five central midfielders in what appears to be a calculated preference for depth in those areas.

Defensive Emphasis

In his latest squad, Tuchel once again demonstrated confidence in a strong, versatile defensive lineup by naming five center-backs. This choice mirrors his initial decisions back in March, reflecting a desire to secure dependable coverage across the back line. Tuchel’s focus hints at a strategy designed to give England the stability it needs as the team prepares for the demands of tournament play.

Midfield Core

Alongside the emphasis on defense, Tuchel’s continued reliance on five central midfielders indicates a structured backbone through the middle of the pitch. By prioritizing central midfielders, England’s manager ensures competition in a role critical to ball distribution and controlling the tempo of matches. The consistent number—five in past and present squads—suggests a calculated balance between defensive duties and creative responsibilities.

Excluding the Number 10

Noteworthy in Tuchel’s selection is the absence of a traditional number 10. This marks a strategic shift that has continued since the spring of his tenure. While some managers might focus on creative attackers in the final third, Tuchel’s preference for a more balanced configuration signals an intention to maintain a compact formation that leans on midfield support rather than a classic playmaker role.

Eye on 2026

Each of these decisions appears to point toward the long-term objective: ensuring England’s readiness for the 2026 World Cup. By focusing on consistency and depth in defense and midfield, Tuchel sets a clear tone for how he expects the team to develop. Though small variations have been observed in previous squads—sometimes four players in those positions rather than five—the core principle remains the same. With the tournament looming, these selections could prove vital to England’s performance on the world stage.