England are up against DR Congo in the Round of 32 clash of the World Cup 2026, and their manager Thomas Tuchel has made some significant changes.
In a surprise but calculated decision, Thomas Tuchel has left Arsenal star Bukayo Saka on the bench for England's crucial knockout clash against DR Congo on July 1, 2026. Noni Madueke starts on the right wing in Tuchel's revised 4-2-3-1 lineup alongside Marcus Rashford, Jude Bellingham, and Harry Kane.
Why is Bukayo Saka not starting Today?
The primary reason is cautious injury management. Saka has been dealing with an Achilles issue that limited his involvement earlier in the tournament. Although he started against Panama and showed flashes of quality - including delivering a key set-piece for a goal - Tuchel is prioritizing long-term fitness
over immediate selection. Knockout football demands peak condition, and the manager is rotating to avoid aggravating the problem during a demanding campaign.
Along with that, Declan Rice is back in the lineup replacing Morgan Rogers, while Marcus Rashford continues to start for the Three Lions.
England topped their group with relative comfort, allowing Tuchel the luxury of rotation. By resting Saka, the coach keeps his explosive winger fresh for potential tougher tests ahead, such as a last-16 meeting with Mexico. Saka has featured in cameos and one start, but his explosive style and high-intensity pressing require full sharpness - something the medical team is protecting.
Tactically, Madueke offers a different threat with his direct dribbling and physicality, suiting the expected low-block approach from DR Congo.
Fans may feel anxious seeing Saka among the substitutes, but this is a pragmatic move rooted in squad management rather than doubt over his talent. At just 24, Saka remains central to England's ambitions. If the match opens up, his impact from the bench could prove decisive.
England Starting XI vs DR Congo
Jordan Pickford, Djed Spence, Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi, Nico O'Reilly, Elliot Anderson, Declan Rice, Noni Madueke, Jude Bellingham, Marcus Rashford, Harry Kane.
