England manager Thomas Tuchel is set to begin a detailed evaluation process involving as many as 60 players as he prepares for the 2026 World Cup.
With no fixtures until March, Tuchel will use the international break period for direct communication—either through video calls or in-person discussions—with players who are on England’s extended talent list.
The German coach has confirmed he will travel to Madrid to meet Jude Bellingham and Trent Alexander-Arnold. Bellingham’s reaction after being substituted in the win over Albania is expected to be a topic of discussion, while Alexander-Arnold’s recent absence from selections will also be addressed.
Tuchel emphasised that the meetings are intended to provide clarity and expectations.
He stated that conversations will include reasons behind non-selection, improvement areas, and future opportunities. Tuchel added that face-to-face communication remains his preferred approach to better understand player mentality and response.
The England setup currently works from a longlist of around 55 to 60 names—an approach Tuchel has consistently used in previous roles.
With preparations now intensifying, the coming weeks mark an important stage in defining England’s final competitive core ahead of next year’s tournament.
