Tuchel directly comments on Arsenal's star players leaving the national team

Coach Thomas Tuchel acknowledges that the simultaneous departure of 11 Arsenal players from the national team appears suspicious, but he still defends his players' integrity.

The mass withdrawal of Arsenal stars during the international call-up in March 2026 has become a focal point of public criticism. With 11 players leaving the national team just before the Champions League quarter-finals, many opinions suggest this is a "tactic" by manager Mikel Arteta.

Speaking to the media, England head coach Thomas Tuchel frankly admitted: “Everyone can calculate, and of course, that's a lot of players. In this situation, things seem a bit dubious, but I can only speak for our players.”.

Nevertheless, the German strategist asserts he has personally reviewed the medical tests and fully trusts his key players. He stated that Declan Rice has been playing in discomfort for a long time and is now at his "physical limit." Meanwhile, Bukayo Saka also had to endure pain to play in the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City earlier and could not perform as desired.

Contrary to speculation about players "avoiding" their duty, Tuchel revealed that both Rice and Saka were present at the camp, even participating in light training and therapy sessions hoping to be fit for the match against Japan. However, the severe pain forced them to return to the club.

“I have no reason to believe Declan or Bukayo are dishonest with me. Bukayo tried training in the gym, Declan also pushed himself on the field with Jude Bellingham, but he said he felt unwell. Why would I force them in a friendly match when they are only at 70%?”Tuchel shared.

The biggest concern now is Noni Madueke, who suffered an injury in the draw against Uruguay and left the field with a knee brace. Tuchel hinted that Madueke may be sidelined for several weeks, while Rice and Saka will race against time to recover for the Champions League first-leg match against Sporting Lisbon on Tuesday.

The Three Lions captain warned that overload is a real threat to England's World Cup hopes. He emphasized that the team's spirit remains strong as the injured players chose to stay for breakfast and farewell with teammates instead of leaving immediately.

In the upcoming match against Japan, Tuchel plans to field his strongest lineup to seek the first win against a top-20 world opponent. Notably, defender Ben White is likely to be given a starting spot after voluntarily withdrawing from the national team, bringing fresh energy to the Three Lions' defense amid severe squad depletion.