Tuchel Explains Alexander-Arnold's Omission

England manager Thomas Tuchel has stated that Trent Alexander-Arnold still has a chance to make the extended World Cup squad, despite other players currently fitting the German's tactical profile better for that position. The Real Madrid star was not included in the 35-man squad Tuchel called up for the upcoming friendlies, even with first-choice Reece James sidelined due to injury. Subsequently, the manager also called up Ben White after Jarell Quansah dropped out.

“The decision we made was very difficult. There’s no doubt about his qualities, his career, and what he can offer to the teams he plays for. However, we developed a slightly different playing model when he wasn't with us in September, October, and November. This model was built on intensity, positivity, and consistent actions from the right-back in terms of both wide overlaps and cutting inside.

The profile of the players who were with us then is a bit different, and they performed so well. We are simply sticking with that. I know this comes at Trent's expense. He was with us in June and perhaps deserved a second chance. It's a very difficult decision, I realize that. He accepted it and will move forward. I will try to watch some Real Madrid matches, perhaps a Champions League game live, to get my latest impressions. He is on the long list, and everyone is still in contention. But right now, some other lads are just ahead of him,” Tuchel stated.