Overview
- Thomas Tuchel said on Saturday that Saka is unlikely to start England’s World Cup group match with Ghana and will probably be used from the bench.
- England and Arsenal medical staff have managed Saka’s Achilles tendinitis since March and the national team has followed a tailored load plan for him.
- Saka came off the bench against Croatia and created Marcus Rashford’s late goal, showing why staff see him as an impact substitute.
- Noni Madueke is the expected right‑wing starter and England’s attacking depth, including rotation options such as Ivan Toney, allows Tuchel to rest key players.
- Ghana’s 1-0 win over Panama raises the match’s intensity so Tuchel is balancing short‑term selection choices with the aim of having Saka fitter for the final group game and the knockout stage.