Will Madueke bench Bukayo Saka for England’s first match?

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·16 June 2026

Will Madueke bench Bukayo Saka for England’s first match?

England will begin their World Cup campaign against Croatia tomorrow night, with one major selection decision facing Thomas Tuchel ahead of the encounter. The England manager must decide whether to start Bukayo Saka or hand Noni Madueke an opportunity in place of his Arsenal teammate.

Saka remains England’s first-choice option on the right wing, but there is little doubt that Tuchel is also a strong admirer of Madueke. The manager has shown considerable faith in the attacker by selecting him in several matches.

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According to the BBC, doubts over Saka’s fitness persist, and the forward is expected to miss out on a place in the starting line up. As reported by the source, Madueke is currently the favourite to start for the Three Lions on the right flank.

Croatia are widely regarded as one of the strongest sides England are likely to encounter, and opening their World Cup campaign against such formidable opposition will place significant expectations on whoever is selected.

The responsibility could fall on Madueke, who will be eager to produce one of the finest displays of his career on such a prestigious stage. A positive performance would not only justify Tuchel’s confidence in him but also provide England with a valuable attacking outlet against difficult opponents.

Tuchel Faces Key Selection Decision

England could also benefit from having Saka available from the bench should Croatia prove challenging for Madueke to break down. The ability to introduce a player of Saka’s quality later in the match could offer Tuchel an important tactical advantage.

Careful squad management will be essential throughout the tournament, particularly when dealing with players returning from injury concerns.

England Must Manage Saka Carefully

Saka experienced injury problems during the recently concluded season, making it unsurprising that he is not yet fully fit. England’s medical staff and coaching team will need to monitor his workload closely to avoid aggravating any existing issues.

Such an approach is also likely to be welcomed by Arsenal, who will be keen to see one of their key players protected from further setbacks while representing his country on the international stage.

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