Tuchel submits England's 55-man World Cup 2026 provisional squad

Thomas Tuchel has named a 55-player longlist for England's World Cup 2026 squad, with several key players included.

Provisional squad announcement Thomas Tuchel has submitted a preliminary England World Cup 2026 squad consisting of 55 players. Among those included are Luke Shaw, Danny Welbeck, and Alex Scott, according to reports. Real Madrid defender Trent Alexander-Arnold is also believed to be part of the initial list. Fifa allowed nations to name up to 55 players ahead of the tournament, which begins on 11 June. ## Squad reduction process Tuchel will now refine the provisional squad down to a final group of 26 players for the tournament co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico. The Football Association has not yet officially published the longlist, with the governing body set to reveal England's final squad on 22 May. Alexander-Arnold, Shaw, Welbeck, and Scott missed selection in Tuchel's previous squads but remain in contention for the June flights. ## Right-back selection dilemma Alexander-Arnold's chances of making the final squad hinge on injury concerns at right-back. Tuchel has shown preference for Chelsea's Reece James, Newcastle's Tino Livramento, and Arsenal's Ben White in that role. Last year, Tuchel indicated Bayer Leverkusen's Jarrell Quansah, a centre-back by trade, was ahead of Alexander-Arnold for the right-back position. James, the first-choice right-back, has only recently recovered from injury. ## Injury updates affecting squad White is a significant doubt for the World Cup due to a knee injury sustained during Sunday's win at West Ham. Livramento is currently unavailable but may recover in time for the tournament. James has returned from injury but remains in Tuchel's plans. Shaw, the Manchester United left-back, could earn a recall after missing England duty since the Euro 2024 final loss to Spain, primarily because of injuries. ## Forward and midfield considerations Welbeck has been a consistent scorer for Brighton this season, with 14 goals under Fabian Hurzeler. Despite his club form, the veteran has not yet been selected in Tuchel's England squads. Bournemouth midfielder Scott received her first senior England call-up in November but was left out of the previous squad. Tuchel will assess their fitness and form before finalizing his 26-man roster.