"We have to take care with him": England coach Thomas Tuchel provides Bukayo Saka fitness update ahead of FIFA WC
Arlington, June 10
England head coach Thomas Tuchel has provided an important fitness update on Bukayo Saka ahead of the team's final World Cup warm-up match against Costa Rica.
According to Goal.com, Saka missed England's recent 1-0 win over New Zealand, with the national team management opting to carefully manage his workload.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Tuchel said England are closely monitoring the winger's fitness ahead of Wednesday's friendly, as he continues to be eased back into action following his late arrival to the squad after Arsenal's Champions League final on May 30.
"We have to take care with Bukayo, who had an injury in the March camp and carried it through to the club campaign," Tuchel said, as quoted by Goal.com.
The 22-year-old had also withdrawn from the March international break due to a setback, making his recovery and match readiness a key focus for the coaching staff.
"He made himself available and was brilliant. He was managed in between matches - we are also building him up. That continues at the moment," he added.
The manager reassured supporters, declaring: "No-one needs a break. Everyone is available which is very good news. No [injury] complaints after the first match."
Despite the cautious approach, Tuchel praised Saka's commitment throughout a heavy season in which he registered 11 goals and nine assists in 49 appearances for Arsenal, helping the club to a successful campaign.
Tuchel outlined the immediate preparation strategy, noting the positive response from the group. "[We've had] one day of recovery and two good training sessions. We are ready to give it a push tomorrow; meaning more than 45 minutes. Players will play 60, maybe 70 minutes. We will make this decision in the afternoon," he said.
Looking ahead to the performance, he added, "Tomorrow, we expect a physical push tomorrow. Physically, [with] intensity and style and play. We want to take the next step and we feel ready for it."
— ANI
Reader Comments
As an Arsenal fan living in Mumbai, this makes me nervous but also relieved. Saka is our star boy and England need him fit. But why take him to the Champions League final if he was carrying an injury? That's the bigger question.
Smart management by Tuchel. Footballers aren't machines. With the WC around the corner, this cautious approach shows real coaching maturity. England are lucky to have a manager who prioritizes player health over short-term friendlies.
"No-one needs a break" - that's a bold statement from Tuchel with the packed schedule these players have. But I'll trust his judgment. Saka's stats this season speak for themselves: 11 goals and 9 assists for Arsenal? Absolute class. Hope he's firing on all cylinders for the WC. 🏴
I admire how transparent Tuchel is being. In Indian sports management, we often hide injuries until it's too late. This open communication about workload management should be a model for our cricket board too. Saka is too precious to risk.
Tuchel is a world-class manager for a reason. He knows exactly how to handle these situations. Let's not forget Saka is only 22 - managing his workload now means a longer, more successful career. England fans should be grateful for this approach rather than complaining.
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