🔗 Share this article

The England manager declared that putting together the most talented footballers is no assurance of building the best team unit. Tuchel suggested that even if the Real Madrid midfielder had returned to peak fitness following his shoulder problem, he might still have missed out from the latest England squad.

Emphasis on Squad Harmony

England's head coach also indicated that the Arsenal winger's recall might not have occurred if his teammate Noni Madueke remained fit. Tuchel has placed significant emphasis on squad unity in his selection for the upcoming Wales friendly and subsequent qualifier in Latvia.

"We're building the best team," said the England boss, who questioned the conventional wisdom that championship teams always select their most dangerous attacking players.

Previous Results

Tuchel pointed to the positive energy during last month's campaign where the national team defeated Andorra and performed brilliantly versus Serbia in Bellingham's absence. Tuchel observed little justification to alter the group dynamic that produced those impressive performances.

• Jude Bellingham excluded even though Real Madrid return
• Foden not included despite resurgence
• Jack Grealish also missed out

Fitness Considerations

Although the manager partly explained Bellingham's exclusion to fitness concerns, he acknowledged that the midfielder wanted to be included during their conversation. Tuchel had earlier apologized to Bellingham for comments regarding his playing conduct.

"Don't you think that attitude from substitutes, support from training, and squad unity allows the first team to perform to their potential?" Tuchel asked.

Team Choices Explained

The coach stressed that his decisions were not personal against any player but rather rewarded those who had delivered in the last campaign.

"What would be justify dropping them and still be credible in my words?" he posed.

Necessary Adjustments

The sole alteration in selection was compulsory with injured Madueke being replaced by the returning Bukayo Saka. The manager explained that the Arsenal winger might have missed out had Madueke stayed healthy.

Additional omissions included Chelsea's Cole Palmer, who continues affected by injury problems. With only two additional gatherings prior to the tournament, opportunities are diminishing for certain individuals to impress.

Tournament Timing Issues

The manager revealed his preference for national team matches to start later due to heat concerns in North America. Tuchel recognized this might cause watching problems for UK supporters but insisted athlete protection remains the priority.

"I understand supporters won't be happy but for us it's preferable with later kickoffs," Tuchel said. "The players make the sport and we must safeguard them."