England head coach Thomas Tuchel has cast doubts over Phil Foden’s chances of making the squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Foden has been a regular part of the England national team setup since making his debut in 2020, but has struggled to replicate his club form on the international scene.
The 25-year-old was the only player to start both of the Three Lions’ matches during the last international break, but he struggled to make an impact once again.
He was deployed in his favourite number 10 role against Uruguay and played in a more forward ‘false nine’ position in the defeat to Japan, but he was below par in both matches.
Speaking during an interview, Tuchel expressed uncertainty over the chances of taking the Manchester City star along with the final squad, given the high level of competition in the team.
“He tried everything. I would say he was excellent in camp but, yeah, he struggles to show it on the pitch”, Tuchel revealed.
“Obviously he didn’t have a lot of minutes for City recently, then he came to camp with the brightest smile and was so good in training.
“And I thought he will just surprise us and will play with the same verve and excitement but, yeah, he struggles to have the full impact.”
Tuchel will be expected to name a final 26-man squad for the World Cup in May, with England set to compete in group L against Croatia, Ghana and Panama.
The Three Lions are looking to win their first major trophy since 1966, when they won their only World Cup title till date.
“Well, it’s not a guarantee that he will come”, Tuchel concluded.
Foden’s focus will now be on improving his performances and regaining his place in Manchester City’s starting team, which would boost his chances of earning a place in the squad for the World Cup tournament.
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