Thomas Tuchel made bold squad selections for England's World Cup campaign. Omitted: Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, Trent Alexander-Arnold. Included: Ivan Toney. England's qualification was perfect—eight wins from eight matches, 22 goals scored, zero conceded.
Tuchel plans a 4-2-3-1 system heavy with attacking options. Declan Rice anchors midfield as "one of the best midfielders in the world." Jude Bellingham's role is not guaranteed a starting spot. Defensive concerns and fitness issues over key players cloud preparations.
England's group schedule: 17 June vs Croatia (Dallas, 9pm BST), 23 June vs Ghana (Boston, 9pm BST), 27 June vs Panama (New York, 10pm BST). Tuchel stated: "We can't be one of the favourites as we haven't won it for so long. There are proven winners within the tournament. These are the favourites."
Questions over England's defense and injuries to key players support under totals in early matches. Rice's fitness is critical to midfield stability. The bold squad omissions reflect Tuchel's tactical clarity but do not materially weaken England.