Saka’s fitness worries England ahead of World Cup opener

England will begin its 2026 World Cup campaign on Wednesday against strong Croatia in Dallas, in Group 12, as Thomas Tuchel tries to end England’s 60-year wait for the trophy. The main storyline in the English press is Bukayo Saka’s condition, with the Arsenal star still not fully recovered from an Achilles injury he has carried since March.

According to the Daily Mail, Saka “does not look at his best,” and his fitness remains a concern for the England camp. He took part in an internal training game against Inter Miami, but only for a limited spell, which has intensified worries about his readiness for the tournament.

Tuchel signaled last week that Saka’s minutes would be restricted, at least at the start of the competition. “We need to be careful with Saka’s injury. He got back to himself at the end of the season, but he still had to manage his workload between matches, and that will continue at the World Cup,” the German coach said.

Tuchel is expected to start Noni Madueke, Saka’s Arsenal teammate, on the right side of attack. Anthony Gordon appears favored on the left over Marcus Rashford, with Ezri Konsa set to partner John Stones in central defense. Jude Bellingham is the leading candidate to play as England’s No. 10 ahead of Morgan Rogers.