Thomas Tuchel sends warning to England's big names and says he's willing to make 'brave decisions' ahead of World Cup 2026

Tuchel’s warning came on the back of an emphatic World Cup qualifying win in Belgrade, where Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers shone in the No.10 role. His performance, highlighted by a flick that set up Noni Madueke’s goal, has raised questions about England’s hierarchy in the forward department. With Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden and Cole Palmer all absent, Tuchel showed he is prepared to trust new options.

Speaking to the media, Tuchel said: “I am always brave – you know that. We took some brave decisions already. We nominated a squad of only 21 [outfield players] to keep the competition going.

“The competition for places is on – if you are in camp, you are in your best behaviour, your best shape, best form and you make the best of it. It’s a privilege to be in camp and then fight for your place … if you can help everyone to be better and to grow. This is what we did.”

“If a big player misses out on a tournament, we need to have solutions; if he misses a camp, we need to have solutions. We have to focus on the guys who are available and who are ready to be the best versions of themselves and the best teammate possible. This is a team sport and it was teamwork in its purest form against Serbia.”

Tuchel’s stance is a clear message that England’s younger generation will be given a real chance to shine. The likes of Rogers, Madueke, Adam Wharton and others now have a pathway to stake their claim, even ahead of established internationals. This injection of youth and competition could help England avoid complacency and build a fresher, more dynamic squad ahead of 2026.

England’s victory over Serbia has strengthened their push for automatic qualification for the World Cup. Tuchel will continue to monitor both established stars and emerging talents as he shapes his squad. With more qualifiers ahead, his brave selection calls could define England’s journey to the tournament.