Navigating Attacking Options: Tuchel’s Tactical Dilemmas Ahead of the World Cup

Many managers would relish the attacking options at Thomas Tuchel’s disposal. The German head coach boasts an array of talent but must grapple with the challenge of harmonizing them effectively. Harry Kane remains a pivotal figure; however, Tuchel must determine the best way to incorporate other stars into the squad. Phil Foden brings versatility, while emerging talents like Morgan Rogers and Cole Palmer—who has faced injury in recent weeks—are vying for positions in the creative midfield. This fierce competition for places renders the final attacking lineup for the World Cup uncertain.

The relationship between Tuchel and midfielder Jude Bellingham has been a focal point of discussion. Bellingham was controversially omitted from the October squad, with Tuchel citing a need for rhythm and team cohesion. Additionally, the manager has publicly addressed Bellingham’s aggressive demeanor on the field, describing it as “repulsive” and emphasizing the need for it to be channeled constructively. Although Bellingham was recalled for the November matches, this situation underscores the pressure on the young dynamo to adapt to Tuchel’s structured approach, which may result in heartbreak for certain players, as Tuchel stated that Kane, Bellingham, and Foden “cannot play” together.

Tuchel elaborated in an interview with talkSPORT: “At the moment, if we maintain structure, they cannot play. They can, but not within the framework we’ve developed. This structure naturally incorporates wingers who excel in their specialized roles. Currently, we operate with a No. 6, a No. 8, a No. 10, and a No. 9.

“There is significant overlap, especially within the No. 10 position. Phil can play there, as can Jude and Morgan Rogers, who has performed excellently in that role for us. We also have Cole Palmer and Morgan Gibbs-White, presenting numerous options. Consequently, there is a possibility we may not include everyone. This is not a reflection of our opinions about them or their individual capabilities; instead, we will always prioritize what is best for the team, ensuring that we maintain balance and clarity—even if it necessitates making difficult decisions. Tough choices are part of any squad, and this will remain the case as we approach the tournament.”

When asked whether this situation places Foden’s position in jeopardy, Tuchel responded, “Yes and no. If you’re a unique player, you can play in multiple positions. I believe he can fulfill the roles of both No. 9 and No. 10, which gives him an advantage in competing for either position. At Manchester City, he often plays as a No. 8/10, so we might consider him as a No. 8 in the coming months. However, I see a very low probability of us taking five No. 10s into a tournament; I fail to see how that would be beneficial.”

England has already qualified for the 2026 World Cup after clinching a first-place finish in Group K with two matches remaining. The Three Lions have remained unbeaten throughout their qualification campaign, winning all six games, with two final qualifiers scheduled against Serbia at Wembley on Thursday and Albania in Tirana on Sunday.