Bukayo Saka is the most important player in England's attack, yet he is likely to be on the bench for the second group game of the World Cup. That's because Thomas Tuchel is carefully managing a longstanding Achilles tendinitis that has limited the winger's minutes. It's a glimpse into the modern tournament reality: even star players carry niggles, and managers must juggle short-term results with long-term goals.
England's group stage continues against Ghana on Tuesday, with Tuchel already hinting that Saka won't start. The Arsenal attacker came off the bench in the 4-2 win over Croatia, immediately assisting Marcus Rashford's goal. Before the tournament, Tuchel said Saka would need careful handling because of his Achilles issue. "Bukayo is ready and will get more and more ready," Tuchel said. "I think once we go to the last game of this group he will be ready." That final group match is against Panama on 27 June. Saka himself insisted he was willing to “gamble” on his fitness to help the team, but Tuchel is prioritising the knockout stages.
“Why Bukayo Saka is likely benched and how England manage World Cup fitness.”
Meanwhile, Marcus Rashford has given England a fitness scare after complaining of muscle tightness at the end of the Croatia win. He appeared to be feeling his hamstring after scoring as a substitute. The quick turnaround between games and different weather conditions have left several players reporting cramp. Tuchel has spoken about using his wingers as both “starters” and “finishers” from the bench. Against Croatia, Noni Madueke and Anthony Gordon started, while Saka and Rashford came on later to decisive effect. That pattern is likely to continue.
Saka's Achilles tendinitis is not new. It has been managed for some time, and Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta kept details largely in-house during the club season. The condition has not worsened since the domestic campaign ended, according to sources, but Tuchel's open admission has thrust the issue into the spotlight. This kind of transparency is unusual; most managers keep injury information close to their chest to protect players. Tuchel's approach suggests he is protecting Saka for the latter stages of the tournament, knowing the 24-year-old could be decisive if fully fit.
For England fans wondering why their star winger isn't starting, it's a classic case of playing the long game. Modern football's congested calendar means very few players arrive at a World Cup 100% fit. Managers must rotate, rest and manage minutes to ensure key players peak at the right time. The group stage is about securing progress; the knockout rounds are where legends are made.
Q: Why isn't Bukayo Saka starting for England? He is managing an Achilles tendinitis issue that has been bothering him for some time. Thomas Tuchel wants to have him fully ready for the later stages of the tournament, so he is being eased into action from the bench.
Q: What is Achilles tendinitis? It's inflammation of the Achilles tendon, often caused by overuse. It can cause pain and stiffness, and if not managed properly, can lead to a rupture. Players typically require rest and careful load management.
Q: How do England manage player fitness during a World Cup? The coaching staff monitor players' workloads, use substitutes strategically, and schedule rest days. For example, after the Croatia game, England players were given a full day off to relax with families. Tuchel also uses a "starters and finishers" approach, bringing on fresh legs late in games.
England face Ghana on Tuesday in Boston. Rashford's muscle tightness will be assessed closer to kick-off. If fit, he is likely to be used as an impact substitute again. Saka will probably remain on the bench, with Tuchel targeting the Panama match for his first start. The knockout stage begins after the group phase, and England will hope their cautious approach pays off.