England manager Thomas Tuchel has warned that Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, and Phil Foden cannot all play together in his current system, hinting at tough selection choices for the 2026 World Cup.
According to a report from talkSPORT, England manager Thomas Tuchel has admitted that he may be forced to leave out some of his biggest attacking talents — including Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, and Phil Foden — as he seeks balance ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
Speaking to talkSPORT’s Faye Carruthers, Tuchel said the trio “cannot play together” in his preferred structure, which features a No.6, No.8, No.10, and No.9. “At the moment, if we keep the structure, they cannot play. Not for the balance that we developed,” he explained.
The manager added that competition is fierce in attacking midfield, with Morgan Rogers, Cole Palmer, and Morgan Gibbs-White also in contention. “There is a lot of congruence, especially in the No.10 position… there is the chance that we will not take everyone,” Tuchel said.
He stressed that selection would prioritize “balance” and “winning,” even if it means tough omissions. “We will always do what’s best for the team,” he stated.
Tuchel also hinted that Foden’s versatility could give him an edge. “If you’re a unique player, you can play both positions,” he said, noting Foden’s ability to operate as a No.9 or No.10.
England, already qualified for the 2026 World Cup, will face Serbia and Albania in upcoming friendlies before Tuchel finalizes his 26-man squad next summer.