Thomas Tuchel makes surprise call on Manchester City star in latest England squad | OneFootball

Manchester City will have two representatives in England’s latest international squad list following confirmation of Thomas Tuchel’s selection this week.

Tuchel, who succeeded Gareth Southgate as England manager in the summer, has wasted little time in stamping his authority on the national team, demonstrating a willingness to freshen selections, offering opportunities to emerging names while maintaining a core of established internationals.

England enter the latest international break preparing for two fixtures in October; a friendly clash against Wales at Wembley Stadium on the 9th before travelling to Riga to take on Latvia in FIFA World Cup qualification Group K on October 14.

City’s players have been central to the national team conversation over the last few years and into the current campaign, with Phil Foden at the heart of Guardiola’s tactical plans, operating effectively in advanced midfield roles.

James Trafford’s rise into the senior England setup has been one of the standout stories since his return to Manchester City, while John Stones continues to offer invaluable versatility and leadership at both club and international level.

This latest announcement from Tuchel, however, offers up a major surprise with its omissions.

Following confirmation from the England national team set-up, both James Trafford and John Stones have been called up for action by Three Lions boss Thomas Tuchel, as a continuation from their call-ups in September.

Surprisingly however, given his return to top-level form in an advanced midfield role for Manchester City, there is no return for Phil Foden to the England squad while neither of the club’s younger options have been handed opportunities.

Both Rico Lewis and Nico O’Reilly may yet be selected for Under-21 call-ups, but neither will be granted an opportunity to represent the senior side this month and in the case of the latter, receive his first cap for the Three Lions.

Kalvin Phillips has also been left out as he continues to work his way back to full fitness and find consistency in performances, whether that be at Manchester City or at another club from January.

For Manchester City supporters, Foden’s absence will come as the biggest talking point, with the 25-year-old having been in strong form for Pep Guardiola, offering both goals and assists from midfield, and widely tipped for a long-term starring role with England.

Thomas Tuchel’s decision may be an indication that he is prioritising balance or tactical flexibility in midfield over pure form, but could look towards Foden nearer the time of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Elsewhere, the inclusions of Stones and Trafford will be seen as recognition of their reliability at club level. Trafford, who has been City’s second-choice behind Gianluigi Donnarumma, continues to gather experience with the national side at a crucial stage in his career.

Stones, meanwhile, remains one of Thomas Tuchel’s most trusted defenders given his composure and tactical intelligence, and there remains a feeling in some quarters that the Manchester City star is being eyed for a defensive midfield role for his country.

Looking ahead, much could depend on Foden’s performances in the coming weeks. Should he continue to deliver for Manchester City in key fixtures against the likes of Brentford and in the Champions League, Tuchel may come under pressure to recall him for November’s internationals.

Likewise, the progression of Lewis and O’Reilly will be closely watched, with both players seen as long-term contenders for England senior honours.