England manager Thomas Tuchel has hinted that Bukayo Saka may once again start on the bench when the Three Lions face Ghana in their second Group L match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Arsenal winger made a significant impact as a substitute during England’s 4-2 victory over Croatia, setting up Marcus Rashford’s late goal shortly after entering the contest.
However, Tuchel appears determined to carefully manage the 24-year-old’s workload as he continues to recover from an Achilles issue.
Saka played through discomfort during Arsenal’s successful Premier League title-winning campaign, but England’s coaching staff are prioritising his long-term fitness for the latter stages of the tournament.
Tuchel provides fitness update
Speaking ahead of the clash with Ghana, Tuchel suggested Saka is progressing well but is not yet ready to start regularly.
“Bukayo is ready and will get more and more ready. I think once we go to the last game of this group he will be ready,” the England boss said.
Medical assessments have reportedly shown that the winger’s Achilles tendinitis has not worsened since the end of the domestic season, although England are reluctant to take unnecessary risks.
The cautious approach could see his Arsenal teammate Noni Madueke retain his place on the right side of attack after impressing in the tournament opener.
Ghana test awaits
England travel to Boston for a crucial encounter against Ghana, who opened their World Cup campaign with a 1-0 victory over Panama.
A second consecutive win would guarantee England’s place in the Round of 32 ahead of their final group-stage fixture against Panama.
While Saka is expected to feature at some point against the Black Stars, Tuchel’s latest comments suggest the Arsenal star may again be used as an impact substitute rather than being risked from the start.
