Thomas Tuchel: Foden's World Cup Spot Not Guaranteed

Tuchel doubts Foden's World Cup place | Image: BBC

Thomas Tuchel says Phil Foden's struggles mean his World Cup spot is 'not a guarantee' as England looks to end trophy drought.

“He tried everything. I would say he was excellent in camp but, yeah...”

Phil Foden's spot in England's World Cup squad is uncertain, according to manager Thomas Tuchel. Foden struggled in an unfamiliar role up front against Japan, registering the fewest touches of any England starter.

Tuchel expressed disappointment with Foden's performance, saying “He struggles to show it on the pitch” despite being “excellent in camp.” Foden's recent form has been a concern, starting only four of Manchester City's last 15 games.

The 25-year-old's form has dipped lately, and they've slipped down Pep Guardiola's pecking order at Manchester City.

“He tried everything. I would say he was excellent in camp but, yeah, he struggles to show it on the pitch,” said Tuchel.

“Obviously, he didn't have a lot of minutes for City recently, then he came to camp with the brightest smile and was so good in training, and I thought he will just surprise us and will play with the same verve and excitement.

“But he struggles to have the full impact.”

Foden's struggles on the international stage are nothing new - he's often failed to replicate his City form with England, even during Euro 2024. He's facing tough competition from Jude Bellingham, Cole Palmer, and Morgan Rogers for a spot in Tuchel's attacking midfield.

With Tuchel saying Foden's spot isn't guaranteed, it looks like a tough road ahead for him to secure his World Cup place. 

Thomas Tuchel, England's manager, has cast doubt on Phil Foden's World Cup chances, saying “It's not a guarantee that he will come” when asked if the struggling player can make it to the finals in North America. Foden had a disappointing performance against Japan, and Tuchel's comments suggest he's not convinced the Manchester City midfielder is ready for the big stage.

The boss reflects on March camp 💬 pic.twitter.com/6YLcb7Qvj7

— England (@England) April 1, 2026

Thomas Tuchel's side suffered a defeat to Japan, marking only their second loss in 12 games under his leadership. Despite this relatively strong record, Tuchel is yet to beat a team ranked among FIFA's top 20 over a year into his reign. “If we put offensive players on the pitch we demand offensive actions, creativity, dribbling, shots and assists and we clearly didn't have enough,” Tuchel said, highlighting England's struggles in attack.

Not our night, but plenty to learn from ahead of an exciting summer.

Thank you for your support throughout this camp, #ThreeLions fans ❤️ pic.twitter.com/4LdsgDTvyJ

— England (@England) March 31, 2026

Thomas Tuchel, England's manager, is staying positive despite a tough March, saying “a difficult March will not define us” after drawing 1-1 with Uruguay and losing 1-0 to Japan. He's confident England can end their wait since 1966 to win a major tournament this summer.

Tuchel's comments come as he's faced criticism over England's recent performances, particularly Phil Foden's struggles. 

Can Foden Make England's Cut?