Thomas Tuchel explains withdrawals of Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice before Japan friendly | OneFootball

England head coach Thomas Tuchel has reshaped his squad for Tuesday’s friendly against Japan at 20:45, with Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice and Noni Madueke returning to Arsenal as he prioritised caution late in the season.

According to L'Équipe, this final squad before the 2026 World Cup was expanded to 35 players. Eight departed the camp on Saturday, including Rice and Saka, who had arrived on Friday, with the pair sent back to London for medical checks.

Tuchel said both players were desperate to feature but he felt taking the risk made no sense. He added they were clearly uncomfortable and there was a chance of worsening their issues.

Theirs were precautionary withdrawals, unlike winger Noni Madueke, who injured his left knee against Uruguay on Friday in a 1-1 draw. Tuchel indicated the absence would be limited to only a few days.

The former PSG coach acknowledged the strain of European fixtures and domestic cups. Rice has already played close to 3,500 minutes this season, with Saka nearing 3,000. With Arsenal still chasing a treble in the FA Cup, Premier League and Champions League, and with the 2026 World Cup ahead, he opted to protect two key players.

Source: L'Équipe