England Squad Surprise as Jude Bellingham Misses Out and Bukayo Saka Returns Strong

Thomas Tuchel’s latest England squad announcement has brought plenty of talking points ahead of the friendly against Wales and the World Cup qualifier against Latvia. While Arsenal star Bukayo Saka makes a welcome return after injury, Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham has been left out despite being fit again. The decision to rest Bellingham has raised eyebrows among fans, but it seems Tuchel prefers to take no chances with his fitness after his recent shoulder surgery.

Bellingham has already returned to action for Real Madrid, playing key minutes in both La Liga and the Champions League. Still, the England manager feels it’s too early for the midfielder to handle international duty. The 22-year-old remains an important figure for the Three Lions, and Tuchel’s cautious approach could help ensure he stays fit for the crucial months ahead.

Saka’s Return Adds Energy to England’s Attack

On the positive side, Saka’s return is a big boost for England’s attack. The Arsenal winger has recovered from his injury and will bring pace, creativity, and energy down the right wing. Tuchel’s side has been strong defensively, winning all five of their World Cup qualifiers so far without conceding a single goal. However, their attack has sometimes lacked spark, and Saka’s comeback could change that.

Elsewhere, Marcus Rashford keeps his place after an impressive spell on loan at Barcelona, while Harry Kane continues to lead the line as captain. Kane’s form remains outstanding, with the striker already surpassing 100 goals for Bayern Munich. Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson also gets another chance to impress after earning praise in the previous international window.

The biggest disappointment comes for Jack Grealish, who has again been left out despite good form for Everton. Phil Foden, another creative name missing, will also be frustrated to remain out of the squad. Injuries to Cole Palmer and Noni Madueke further limit England’s attacking depth.

Potential England Squad for Wales and Latvia Fixtures

Goalkeepers

• Dean Henderson (Crystal Palace)

• Jordan Pickford (Everton)

• James Trafford (Manchester City)

Defenders

• Reece James (Chelsea)

• John Stones (Manchester City)

• Marc Guéhi (Crystal Palace)

• Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa)

• Dan Burn (Newcastle United)

• Djed Spence (Tottenham Hotspur)

• Jarell Quansah (Bayer Leverkusen)

• Myles Lewis-Skelly (Arsenal)

Midfielders

• Declan Rice (Arsenal)

• Jordan Henderson (Brentford)

• Ruben Loftus-Cheek (AC Milan)

• Morgan Gibbs-White (Nottingham Forest)

• Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest)

• Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa)

Forwards

• Harry Kane (Bayern Munich)

• Marcus Rashford (Barcelona, on loan from Manchester United)

• Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)

• Eberechi Eze (Arsenal)

• Anthony Gordon (Newcastle United)

• Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)

• Jarrod Bowen (West Ham United)

Tuchel’s choices show a mix of caution and trust in form players. With qualification for the 2026 World Cup in sight, he seems focused on maintaining momentum while protecting key stars. The matches against Wales and Latvia will be a test of England’s depth, and a chance for some new names to make their mark.