As the football world turns its attention to England’s upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Albania and Latvia, all eyes are on Thomas Tuchel, the newly appointed England manager, who is set to announce his inaugural squad this Friday, March 14. With the German tactician officially taking the reins on January 1, anticipation is building over which players will earn a coveted call-up—and who might be left out—as Tuchel begins his mission to lead the Three Lions to glory in 2026.
Tuchel, renowned for his tactical acumen and success at clubs like Chelsea and Bayern Munich, inherits a talented pool of English players following Gareth Southgate’s tenure. Having reportedly compiled a 55-man shortlist, the former Champions League-winning manager is expected to blend established stars with fresh faces, while potentially offering recalls to players overlooked in recent years. Here’s what to expect as the announcement approaches.
A new era with familiar favorites
Tuchel’s familiarity with certain players from his time at Chelsea could heavily influence his selections. Reece James, the Chelsea captain who thrived under Tuchel as an attacking wing-back, is widely tipped to return to the England fold after nearly two years absent from international duty. Despite fitness concerns, James has confirmed discussions with Tuchel, signaling a likely reunion. Similarly, Ben Chilwell, another Tuchel favorite from his Stamford Bridge days, could be in line for a recall despite limited minutes on loan at Crystal Palace this season.
Harry Kane, England’s talismanic captain, is a guaranteed inclusion barring injury. Tuchel’s recent trip to watch Kane in Bayern Munich’s clash against Bayer Leverkusen underscores his reliance on the prolific striker, who remains central to England’s attacking ambitions.
Emerging talents in the spotlight
Tuchel has promised a “clean slate,” and that openness could pave the way for breakout stars to make their mark. Arsenal’s teenage sensations Ethan Nwaneri and Myles Lewis-Skelly have generated significant buzz. Nwaneri, who turns 18 just days after the squad announcement, recently became the third-youngest scorer in Champions League knockout history during Arsenal’s 7-1 rout of PSV Eindhoven. Former England midfielder Joe Cole has boldly claimed Nwaneri “should go straight in” to Tuchel’s squad, bypassing the Under-21s. Lewis-Skelly, an 18-year-old versatile left-back, is also in contention, with Tuchel reportedly eyeing him as a solution to England’s longstanding issues at that position.
Elsewhere, Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap has emerged as a potential wildcard. The 22-year-old striker’s composure in front of goal has impressed in the Premier League, positioning him as a possible backup to Kane. Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford, who has kept an astonishing 12 consecutive clean sheets in the Championship, is another uncapped name generating excitement, with his form potentially earning him a senior debut.
Recalls and redemption
Tuchel’s willingness to reconsider players previously out of favor adds further intrigue. Marcus Rashford, revitalized at Manchester United this season, seems a near-certain pick after falling out of Southgate’s plans. James Maddison, now back to full fitness at Tottenham, has also confirmed talks with Tuchel and expressed his hunger to reclaim his spot. Raheem Sterling, Eric Dier, and Mason Mount—veterans with proven pedigree—could also benefit from Tuchel’s fresh perspective, though their club form will be under scrutiny.
One of the biggest talking points is Arsenal’s Ben White. The versatile defender, who has been absent from England squads since leaving the 2022 World Cup camp for personal reasons, has reportedly held discussions with Tuchel. With Kieran Trippier retired from international duty and Kyle Walker nearing 35, White’s potential return could bolster the backline.
Tactical hints and squad shape
Tuchel’s tactical preferences will also shape his selections. Known for favoring both a back four and a three-man defense—most memorably the latter during Chelsea’s 2021 Champions League triumph—his choices could hint at England’s direction. A back three might suit players like James and White, while a four-man setup could open doors for full-backs like Crystal Palace’s Tyrick Mitchell or Tottenham’s Djed Spence, both of whom have been linked with call-ups.
In midfield, the balance between youth and experience will be key. Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, regaining fitness after a groin injury, is a strong contender, while Tuchel may resist over-relying on Lille’s technically gifted but physically questioned Angel Gomes. Up top, alongside Kane and Rashford, Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins and Brentford’s Ivan Toney (now in Saudi Arabia) could vie for spots, with Tuchel likely to prioritize form over reputation.