Thomas Tuchel has named his first England squad since the 2026 World Cup, with Chelsea captain Reece James and teammate Noni Madueke among the notable omissions. The squad, announced on September 18, 2026, also sees a surprising recall for Trent Alexander-Arnold and a return for Cole Palmer, who was controversially left out of the World Cup squad.
Key Omissions and Returns
Reece James, a regular under Tuchel, has been dropped as right-back, making way for Alexander-Arnold's return. Noni Madueke has also been omitted, but Cole Palmer earns a recall following a strong start to the season. Palmer's absence from the World Cup had been a major talking point, and his return is seen as a reward for his club form.
New Faces and Injury Absences
Several inexperienced players have been called up for the four upcoming Nations League matches. Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott, Everton defender Jarrad Branthwaite, and Liverpool winger Rio Ngumoha are the new names in the squad. Meanwhile, Jordan Henderson, John Stones, and Dean Henderson have been ruled out with injury until after the international break.
England's summer ended in heartbreak once again, with a semi-final loss to Argentina at the World Cup. However, a win in the third-place play-off against France secured their best finish at a major tournament since 1966.
Tuchel Under Pressure
Tuchel's team selection and tactics against Argentina have faced scrutiny, but the Football Association has kept faith in the German manager. His new objective is to win Euro 2028 on home soil. The road to that tournament begins with the Nations League, and England face a tough opener against world and European champions Spain at Wembley next week.
Over the extended September/October international break, England will also play Croatia twice and the Czech Republic twice. The full fixture list includes a home game against Spain on September 26, an away match in the Czech Republic on September 29, a trip to Croatia on October 3, and a home game against the Czech Republic on October 6. Two more fixtures follow in November: Croatia at home on November 12 and Spain away on November 15.
The squad's blend of experience and youth will be tested in these matches, as Tuchel looks to build a team capable of winning Euro 2028. The immediate focus, however, is on the Nations League, where England will aim to start strongly against Spain.
