Thomas Tuchel's England officially get their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign underway with a blockbuster Group L clash against familiar foes Croatia on Wednesday. Stepping out onto the pitch at the Dallas Stadium in Arlington, the Three Lions arrive with high expectations, but their German manager faces a handful of crucial selection headaches ahead of the opening whistle.
With a squad bursting with attacking talent, Tuchel has to perfectly balance fitness concerns with tactical fluidity. Here is a look at the latest team news and how England is expected to line up against the Chequered Ones.
The biggest question mark surrounding the England camp is the fitness of Arsenal talisman Bukayo Saka. The 24-year-old ended his gruelling domestic season dealing
with an Achilles issue and discomfort, which kept him out of the starting lineup for England's final two warm-up friendlies against Costa Rica and New Zealand.
While Saka recently insisted he is "ready to go" and willing to take a fitness gamble, Tuchel is widely expected to exercise caution. With the gruelling latter stages of the tournament in mind, it is highly unlikely the manager will risk aggravating Saka's injury in the group opener. Instead, Chelsea's Noni Madueke is heavily favoured to start on the right flank. Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers provides another excellent bench option, but Madueke's directness makes him the natural deputy.
The Left-Wing Battle: Gordon or Rashford?
On the opposite flank, a fierce battle for the starting left-wing berth has been unfolding in training camp. Manchester United veteran Marcus Rashford is always a dangerous option, but all signs point to Anthony Gordon winning the head-to-head race.
Gordon strengthened his case with a stellar performance in the warm-up victory over Costa Rica, where he was highly involved in the buildup and calmly converted a second-half penalty. His incredible work rate, direct pace, and form following a headline-grabbing domestic season give him the undeniable edge to start.
Through the middle, the structure is rock solid. Jude Bellingham will operate in the coveted number 10 position, tasked with pulling the creative strings and supporting captain Harry Kane, who heads into the tournament looking to score a record-extending 80th goal for his country.
Behind them, the midfield double pivot practically picks itself. Arsenal's Declan Rice will anchor the engine room alongside Elliot Anderson, providing a perfect blend of defensive grit and ball progression.
At the back, Jordan Pickford retains his undisputed status between the posts. The full-back positions will be occupied by Reece James on the right and Nico O'Reilly on the left. In central defence, Tuchel has a tight call between John Stones, Ezri Konsa, and Marc Guehi. After being snubbed from the start against Costa Rica, Guehi is the likeliest to miss out, meaning John Stones will partner with Ezri Konsa at the heart of the backline.
Predicted England Line-up vs. Croatia
Jordan Pickford, Reece James, John Stones, Ezri Konsa, Nico O'Reilly, Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson, Noni Madueke, Jude Bellingham, Anthony Gordon, Harry Kane
