One of Thomas Tuchel’s comments on international duty might’ve had Jude Bellingham questioning Bukayo Saka’s involvement.
Saka missed out on the September international break due to injury but was selected to join the Three Lions in October.
The winger is one of many Arsenal players on international duty right now, joining Eberechi Eze, Declan Rice and Myles Lewis-Skelly in the England squad.
Saka scored an outrageous goal against Wales to the delight of everyone back at Arsenal, but one player might’ve been watching on in disbelief.
Henry Winter says Jude Bellingham’s England omission doesn’t make sense because of Bukayo Saka
Tuchel isn’t afraid to speak openly about his decisions when selecting the England squad, with the manager’s words meaning even more with the 2026 World Cup fast approaching.
Such made the October squad selection all the more debatable, as Jude Bellingham missed out on a call-up.
Renowned journalist Henry Winter spoke about the matter on talkSPORT, arguing that Tuchel’s reason for leaving Bellingham out made no sense because of Saka’s inclusion.
“Tuchel basically said, well, he’s [Bellingham] got to be sort of playing, how much has Saka been playing?” Winter asked.
“Saka obviously has to be in the squad, but he hasn’t been playing that regularly for Arsenal obviously, because of injuries.”
Winter’s argument carries some weight as Saka has only played 205 minutes in the Premier League since returning from injury, with Bellingham playing 116 in La Liga since his return.
Tuchel won’t be questioning his decision anytime soon, particularly after Saka’s man-of-the-match display for England against Wales.
Thomas Tuchel puts pressure on Saka
That being said, after the win, Tuchel did warn Saka that he doesn’t score enough goals for England.
With 13 goals in 45 appearances for the Three Lions, Tuchel expects more from his winger, which is only good news for those at Arsenal, who will want more of the same.
Saka’s output isn’t a problem, but the more goals the better for the Gunners, whose top scorer in the league last season was Kai Havertz with just nine goals.
There’s a fight to make a mark in the England squad before the 2026 World Cup, something no player is exempt from, even Saka and Bellingham.
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