adminThomas Tuchel has sparked fresh controversy after revealing that Bukayo Saka was left out of England’s World Cup semi-final against Argentina despite being fully fit.
Many supporters initially believed Saka’s absence was linked to the Achilles problem that had troubled him earlier in the tournament.
However, Tuchel has now admitted the decision was purely tactical, explaining that he chose Morgan Rogers because he had a “feeling” the Aston Villa midfielder could make a bigger impact.
Saka did not feature at all in the semi-final, a decision that puzzled fans and pundits alike. The Arsenal winger later responded in emphatic fashion by scoring a hat-trick in England’s 6-4 victory over France in the third-place play-off, confirming afterwards that he had been available to play.
Speaking to the BBC, Saka said: “Of course, I would have liked to play more, but this isn’t the right moment to focus on that. I prefer to let my football do the talking. It’s over now, and we move forward.”
When asked directly whether he had been fit, Saka replied without hesitation: “Yeah, I’m fit.”
Tuchel defended his decision after the victory over France, insisting Saka remains one of England’s most important players.
“He was excellent,” Tuchel said. “Bukayo is a key player for me. He was ready during the World Cup, but considering everything he had been through, I felt it was my responsibility as coach to manage him carefully.
“He started four of our eight matches, and leaving him out of the semi-final was a very difficult decision. After the Norway game, I had a feeling Morgan Rogers could offer something special with his physicality against Argentina.
“We had Bukayo warming up several times and were prepared to bring him on, but the match became so unpredictable that we decided to go in another direction.
“Nothing has changed in my opinion of him. Bukayo is an outstanding player, an incredible teammate, and a vital part of this squad. He reminded everyone of his quality again today, and I’m delighted for him.”
Despite Tuchel’s explanation, the decision has continued to divide opinion. Saka finished the tournament with three goals and three assists in 356 minutes, underlining his importance whenever he featured.
Rogers, meanwhile, recorded two assists across 337 minutes. Although he registered an assist in the semi-final, his overall display drew mixed reviews, with modest attacking numbers and limited success in duels despite the physical presence Tuchel had praised.
The selection call has remained one of the biggest talking points of England’s World Cup campaign, with many questioning whether leaving a fully fit Saka on the bench in such a crucial match was the right decision.
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