Thomas Tuchel, the coach of England, has clarified his decision not to include Trent Alexander-Arnold in the squad for the two friendly matches scheduled against Uruguay and Japan on March 27th and March 31st. The right-back’s exclusion was a notable surprise, particularly as Tuchel had named a larger-than-usual 35-player provisional squad. Following Jarell Quansah’s withdrawal due to a knee injury, Tuchel opted to call up Ben White, bypassing the Real Madrid right-back.
Tuchel defended his choice, attributing it to a distinct and ‘very intense’ playing philosophy that Alexander-Arnold may not currently align with optimally. He explained, “We developed a slightly different playing model when he wasn’t with the camp in September, October, and November. This was a playing model built on intensity, built on positivity, and for the right-back profile specifically, on overlaps and underlaps – a very intense approach.”
Does Trent Alexander-Arnold still harbor aspirations for the World Cup?
Tuchel acknowledged it was “a very difficult decision” and one he took personally, adding that Alexander-Arnold “was with us in June and might have deserved another opportunity.”
For now, Tuchel stated that Trent remains “on the long list and everyone is still in contention. However, at this moment, other guys are simply ahead of him.” He further specified that he “will make sure to watch a few Real Madrid matches, perhaps a Champions League game live, to gather my final impressions.”
This situation provides additional motivation for Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose inaugural season at Madrid has been inconsistent, marred by frequent injury absences. Nevertheless, he delivered one of his strongest performances in last week’s derby against Atlético Madrid.