Tuchel on his decision to leave out Alexander-Arnold and his ‘unique’ plan for upcoming internationals | OneFootball

Thomas Tuchel says Trent Alexander-Arnold still has a chance of making the World Cup squad.

The Real Madrid right-back was left out of the squad to face Uruguay and Japan in friendlies in the coming international break.

“It’s a tough decision, and Trent is a big name, a huge talent with an impressive career,” Tuchel said on his decision to leave him out. “I know what he can give us, but I’ve opted for others.

“We were very good in September, October, and November, and I know what Trent can offer. I’ve also faced challenges when he’s played against my teams.

“The players in camp at right full-back must push to earn their spot on the plane to the World Cup.”

Tuchel also revealed he has decided to split his 35-man squad into two for the upcoming internationals.

11 players will join the camp later – Jordan Henderson, Dan Burn, Marc Guehi, Ezri Konsa, Nico O’Reilly, Elliot Anderson, Declan Rice, Morgan Rogers, Anthony Gordon, Harry Kane and Bukayo Saka.

“This March camp is a unique one,” Tuchel explained. “We have already qualified, and our players are at a crucial stage in their club seasons. It’s the last chance to impress and compete for a spot. That is why we have spilt the squad.

“These guys have played 3,500 minutes, some 4,000 minutes. More important than the pure number of minutes is some of these guys have played more minutes than the whole of last season.

“All of these players have contributed in September, October and November. They have credit with me. To give them a break mentally and physically, we will benefit from it.”