Overview
- After completing qualifying with eight wins and no goals conceded, Tuchel confirmed a structured plan to contact all fringe candidates on his extended list.
- The manager said he prefers FaceTime or in-person club visits and indicated a Madrid trip to meet Trent Alexander-Arnold is possible, potentially alongside Jude Bellingham.
- Jarell Quansah debuted at right-back in the 2-0 win in Albania, with Tuchel saying the Bayer Leverkusen defender is currently “a tiny bit ahead” of Alexander-Arnold in that role.
- Alexander-Arnold’s path back is complicated by his very limited playing time at Real Madrid this season, which Tuchel referenced in explaining recent non-selections.
- England’s next gathering is set for March with two friendlies planned, with reports suggesting Japan and Uruguay as potential opponents.