Bukayo Saka unlikely to start England vs Ghana, Tuchel says

Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka is unlikely to start England’s World Cup group match against Ghana after ongoing fitness concerns. The 24‑year‑old is still rebuilding after an Achilles problem and has not reached full match‑ready condition, according to reports in UK papers.

Noni Madueke is expected to retain his place on the right wing for England against Ghana. Thomas Tuchel has managed Saka’s workload carefully since March, leaving him short of the fitness required for full matches.

Tuchel publicly questioned Saka’s readiness last week, stating “He is still not 100 per cent for us” and noting missing elements in consecutive training. He added that while he did not say Saka was not ready to start, it was “very unlikely” he would start and finish matches from now on.

Saka responded on Monday, praising the collaboration between Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s medical team, and England’s medical staff since March. He said he feels better than in recent months and declared “I’m ready to go, man.”

Tuchel’s priority remains keeping Saka available throughout the tournament rather than demanding he start and finish every game. Consequently, early substitutions may be used once Saka returns to the starting XI.

The decision to keep Madueke in the starting lineup gives Saka additional time to increase his workload without pressure. Photo credits for the story include Charlotte Wilson, Michael Regan and Richard Pelham.