Saka ready to risk fitness for England World Cup 2026 opener

Bukayo Saka insists he is fit enough to play England's World Cup 2026 opener against Croatia despite an Achilles issue.

Saka's injury background Bukayo Saka has been playing with an Achilles injury since March, which has forced careful management of his game time for both Arsenal and England. He missed England’s March international break due to the injury and was sidelined for seven matches for his club side. Despite this, he returned to help Arsenal secure the Premier League title after a 22-year wait. England’s manager has emphasized the need to carefully monitor Saka’s condition, suggesting it is highly unlikely he will play every minute of all World Cup matches. ## Saka's readiness for World Cup When questioned about his readiness to play the entire duration of England’s opening World Cup match in Dallas, Saka responded confidently that he is prepared to be selected. Saka explained that both Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal staff and Thomas Tuchel’s England medical teams have managed his recovery superbly since March, helping him return to peak performance. He stated that he is feeling better than he has in recent months and expressed his eagerness to contribute. Saka also acknowledged the manager’s authority, saying he does not want to contradict Tuchel’s decisions. ## Saka's risk and criticism Saka admitted that playing while not fully fit is a gamble he is willing to take, especially as criticism often follows regardless of fitness levels. He highlighted the pressure on players to perform, regardless of how they feel, as fans and pundits expect consistent output. Saka reflected that taking this risk has paid off in the past, and he intends to continue doing so. He emphasized that he is feeling significantly better now than he was in March and is fully prepared to play. ## Saka's partnership with Madueke Saka is competing for the starting right-wing position with Arsenal teammate Noni Madueke, yet the two maintain an exceptionally close bond. Saka described their relationship as unique, calling Madueke like a brother both on and off the pitch. They push each other daily and share a deep mutual respect, always hoping for the best for one another. Saka noted that their rivalry benefits the team, as one’s success directly contributes to the other’s opportunities. ## Saka's international progress Saka is set to earn his 50th England cap in the upcoming match against Croatia. He featured for 27 minutes in England’s warm-up game against Costa Rica, with Tuchel carefully managing his minutes. Saka was substituted during the Champions League final as Arsenal lost to Paris Saint-Germain in Budapest, with the game tied at the time of his exit. Despite facing criticism for his performance in that match, Saka remains committed to taking calculated risks to contribute to the team.