England's Head Coach Asserts Top Talents Don't Always Form the Best Team
Thomas Tuchel has stated that assembling the most talented footballers does not guarantee building the most effective team unit. Tuchel suggested that even if Jude Bellingham were fully fit following his shoulder problem, the player could still have been omitted from the recent England squad.
Emphasis on Squad Harmony
The Three Lions' manager also indicated that Bukayo Saka's return might not have occurred had his fellow Arsenal player Noni Madueke remained fit. Tuchel has placed great importance on squad unity in his selection for the upcoming friendly against Wales and World Cup qualifier in Latvia.
"We're creating the best team," stated Tuchel, who challenged the conventional wisdom that championship teams typically choose their top forwards.
Proven Success
The manager referenced the excellent atmosphere during last month's international break where the national team beat Andorra and performed brilliantly versus Serbia in Bellingham's absence. Tuchel observed no reason to change the group dynamic which delivered such positive results.
- Jude Bellingham excluded despite club comeback
- Phil Foden omitted despite improved form
- Jack Grealish also missed out
Physical Condition Factors
Although the manager partly explained Bellingham's exclusion to fitness concerns, he acknowledged that the midfielder desired selection when they spoke. Tuchel had previously said sorry to the midfielder for remarks regarding his playing behavior.
"Would you agree that attitude from substitutes, support from training, and squad unity allows the first team to play at their best?" Tuchel asked.
Squad Selection Justification
Tuchel emphasized that his selections were not personal against any player but rather rewarded those who had performed in the last international break.
"What would be my explanation to leave them out while remaining authentic with my statements?" he posed.
Injury Enforced Changes
The only change in selection was compulsory with injured Noni Madueke making way for the returning Saka. Tuchel clarified that the Arsenal winger could have been excluded had Madueke remained fit.
Other absentees included Chelsea's Cole Palmer, who continues to struggle with injury problems. With only two additional gatherings prior to the tournament, time is running out for certain individuals to impress.
World Cup Scheduling Concerns
Tuchel expressed his preference for national team matches to start later because of temperature worries in North America. Tuchel recognized this might cause viewing difficulties for UK supporters but maintained athlete protection must come first.
"I understand supporters won't be happy but for the team it's better if we play later," Tuchel said. "The players are the game and we must safeguard them."
