Real Madrid right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold has been left out of England’s squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia. Since leaving Liverpool for Madrid earlier this summer, Alexander-Arnold has endured a difficult start in Spain, struggling to adapt to La Liga and failing to showcase his trademark attacking quality. His form appears to have influenced manager Thomas Tuchel’s selection for these crucial matches.
In the right-back role, Tuchel has preferred Chelsea’s Reece James, Tottenham’s Djed Spence, and Newcastle’s Tino Livramento. The decision to omit Alexander-Arnold is surprising, given his experience at major tournaments and his ability to provide creativity from deep positions.
There were other surprises as well. Marcus Rashford, who joined Barcelona on loan this season, has made the squad despite limited minutes under Hansi Flick. So far, he has started just once in two games and is yet to record a goal or assist. Still, Tuchel believes Rashford can make a difference in attack.
In defence, established names like John Stones, Marc Guehi, Dan Burn, and Ezri Konsa have all been included, providing stability at the back. Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane will once again captain the side, supported by Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins.
Some notable players have missed out. Manchester United defender Harry Maguire has been left out as he continues to struggle for form, while Burnley’s Kyle Walker and Al-Ahli striker Ivan Toney have also not been selected.
England, runners-up at Euro 2024, have made a strong start under Tuchel, winning all three of their qualifying matches so far. They sit top of their group with nine points, ahead of Albania, Serbia, and Latvia. Andorra remain bottom after four straight losses.
The remaining qualifiers will be played in October and November. Group winners qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, while runners-up face a playoff route. For Tuchel, these matches provide another chance to build momentum and shape his squad ahead of next summer’s tournament.
England’s Squad for World Cup Qualifiers
- Goalkeepers: Dean Henderson, Jordan Pickford, James Trafford
- Defenders: Dan Burn, Marc Guehi, Reece James, Ezri Konsa, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Tino Livramento, Djed Spence, John Stones
- Midfielders: Elliot Anderson, Morgan Gibbs-White, Jordan Henderson, Declan Rice, Morgan Rogers, Adam Wharton
- Forwards: Jarrod Bowen, Eberechi Eze, Anthony Gordon, Harry Kane, Noni Madueke, Marcus Rashford, Ollie Watkins
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