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Elijah Okpara I am a Freelance Research Analyst. I'm my 2+ years as a research analyst, I have published over 100.
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In Sports 3 min read
Tuchel’s Big Decisions: The Tough Questions England Must Answer Before the World Cup
<p>England fans are already dreaming big after Thomas Tuchel led the Three Lions through a spotless World Cup qualifying run, eight wins from eight and not even one goal conceded. For a country still waiting for a major trophy since 1966, many people are starting to believe that maybe, just maybe, this might be the year something changes.</p><p>But as perfect as the qualifiers were, Tuchel now faces some heavy football decisions before picking his World Cup squad. And honestly, when you look closely at the team, there are some real puzzles waiting for him.</p><p><br/></p><p><strong>The Bellingham vs Rogers Drama</strong></p><p><img alt="" src="/media/inline_insight_image/1000536701.webp"/></p><p>One of the biggest talking points right now is the growing competition between Jude Bellingham and Morgan Rogers for that number 10 role. Both of them are young, hungry, and ridiculously talented. What makes it sweeter is that they were childhood friends, so their rivalry has a friendly but sharp edge.</p><p>Rogers stepped up big time when Bellingham was recovering from shoulder surgery. Many fans expected Bellingham to automatically return to the starting lineup, but Tuchel surprised everyone by keeping faith with Rogers. And to be fair, the Aston Villa star did not disappoint.</p><p>However, when Bellingham finally returned and started against Albania, he reminded everyone why he’s considered one of the best young midfielders in the world. His dribbling, his vision, the way he drives forward all top-notch. The only downside was his attitude when he was subbed off, something Tuchel said he would look into.</p><p>Even with Rogers’ impressive form, most people believe Bellingham’s experience on the biggest stages may give him the slight advantage when the World Cup kicks off.</p><p><br/></p><p><strong>No Harry Kane, No Party</strong></p><p><img alt="" src="/media/inline_insight_image/1000536695.webp"/></p><p>If there’s one player England simply cannot afford to lose, it’s Harry Kane. At 32, he’s still in top form and showing no signs of slowing down. The man scored twice against Albania, pushing his record to 78 goals in 112 appearances, these are crazy numbers.</p><p>Tuchel has backup options like Ollie Watkins and Marcus Rashford, while there are whispers about a possible return for veteran Danny Welbeck. But let’s be honest: none of them come close to Kane. Without him, England’s attack loses a huge chunk of its identity.</p><p>This is why many fans are praying that the World Cup ends without any injury scares.</p><p><br/></p><p><strong>Who Makes the Defence?</strong></p><p>England’s defence is another area giving Tuchel some food for thought. John Stones showed how valuable he is by switching between defence and midfield with ease against Albania. His experience could make him the first name on the team sheet.</p><p>But competition is still strong, with Ezri Konsa and Marc Guehi both pushing hard for starting shirts. The only challenge is that both missed the Albania match due to injury, which might affect their rhythm heading into the World Cup.</p><blockquote>‘Defensive headache’ is probably the right phrase here.</blockquote><p><br/></p><p><strong>Left Wing Problems</strong></p><p>On the left side of the attack, the battle is also heating up. Bukayo Saka has locked down the right wing, but the left wing is still very open.</p><p>Marcus Rashford made a strong statement with his assist for Kane’s second goal. But he has competition from Anthony Gordon, Noni Madueke, and Eberechi Eze, not to mention Jack Grealish, who is still struggling to break back into the national team setup.</p><p>Tuchel loves players who offer flexibility, so anyone who can adapt and deliver consistently has a real chance.</p><p><br/></p><p><strong>The Final Verdict</strong></p><p>England may look strong on paper, but Tuchel’s final squad selection will require some bold choices. From deciding between Bellingham and Rogers, to protecting Kane at all costs, to tightening up the defence, the coach clearly has work to do.</p><p>Still, with eight straight wins and zero goals conceded, there’s something different about this England side. If Tuchel gets his selections right, the World Cup might genuinely become interesting for English fans again.</p><p><strong>What do you think? does England look strong enough to finally bring football home? Drop your thoughts in the comments!</strong></p><p><br/></p>

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