England's quest for World Cup glory under Thomas Tuchel is set to begin on Wednesday as the Three Lions face Croatia in Dallas. Eighteen months after his appointment, Tuchel’s primary objective is clear: to secure a second star for the national shirt. Despite an unblemished qualification campaign, which saw England remain undefeated, drawless, and concede no goals, recent friendly performances have left some uncertainty regarding the manager's preferred starting line-up for the tournament opener.
In goal, Jordan Pickford is a certainty. The defensive line is largely settled, with Reece James and Nico O’Reilly anticipated to occupy the full-back positions. At centre-back, the pairing of John Stones and Ezri Konsa appears to be Tuchel's favoured choice, according to reports from BBC Sport. This selection reportedly highlights the manager's emphasis on height and physical presence, particularly given his stated importance of set-pieces in tournament football. Stones brings extensive tournament experience, while Konsa has been a regular under Tuchel.
The full-backs, James and O’Reilly, are expected to play a crucial dual role, contributing not only defensively but also significantly to England's build-up play from the back. Both players have demonstrated their versatility by featuring in midfield for their respective clubs, Chelsea and Manchester City, this season. Their on-ball creativity and passing range, especially James's, are set to complement the tenacity of Elliot Anderson and the driving force of Declan Rice, who are anticipated to form England's central midfield pivot.
Further forward, Jude Bellingham is widely expected to start in the No 10 position. Despite Morgan Rogers' strong showing during qualification, Bellingham's leadership qualities and ability to contribute significantly to attacking output, making runs beyond the striker, are seen as vital. On the right wing, Bukayo Saka is the likely starter, though Tuchel has hinted at potential fitness concerns that could limit his minutes. This opens the door for Noni Madueke, who impressed during England's 5-0 victory over Serbia in qualifying, to play a crucial role, potentially even challenging Saka for a starting spot as the tournament progresses.
Tuchel's most significant selection dilemma lies on the left wing, where Anthony Gordon and Marcus Rashford are vying for a starting berth. Gordon, recently signed by Barcelona, showcased his credentials in a friendly against Costa Rica last week. Rashford, who spent last season on loan at Barcelona, enjoyed a productive spell, netting 14 goals and providing 14 assists in 49 appearances. Gordon's numbers were also strong, with 17 goals and five assists in 43 games for Newcastle. While Gordon offers penalty prowess, Rashford's tournament experience and more natural striker's instinct, making runs in behind when Harry Kane drops deep, might give him the edge. Leading the line, of course, will be captain Harry Kane, fresh from an astonishing season for Bayern Munich where he scored 61 goals and provided seven assists.