Tuchel weighs up International duties ahead of Club World Cup
Home – Tuchel weighs up International duties ahead of Club World Cup
By Martin Graham
England manager Thomas Tuchel is facing a difficult decision over whether to release certain players early ahead of next month’s Club World Cup in the United States. The England squad has fixtures against Andorra in Barcelona on 7 June and Senegal at Nottingham Forest’s City Ground on 10 June. However, the second match falls just days before the global tournament begins.
Clubs involved in the FIFA competition – including Manchester City, Chelsea, Bayern Munich, Real Madrid, and Atletico Madrid – are pressing for their players to be released following the Andorra game to allow time for travel and preparation. But current indications suggest Tuchel intends to keep the full squad together for both matches, delaying their release until after the Senegal fixture.
The Football Association is set to continue internal discussions regarding its position. In its latest annual review, the FA noted that the introduction of additional international competitions poses a “serious challenge” to managing the well-being of top-level players, potentially affecting recovery time and increasing risk of fatigue. It also highlighted concerns over the impact such changes could have on domestic competitions and national team performance.
Squad availability could affect club and country plans
Up to 12 players could be caught between club and country obligations. Among them are Chelsea stars Cole Palmer, Reece James, Levi Colwill, and Noni Madueke. Bayern Munich’s Harry Kane, Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham, and Atletico Madrid’s Conor Gallagher are also likely to be involved in both Tuchel’s national squad and their respective club teams for the Club World Cup.
If no early releases are granted, Chelsea could find themselves particularly short-handed. The London side faces a tight schedule, with a possible Europa Conference League final on 28 May, followed by players joining the national team, and then the Club World Cup beginning mid-June. Their opening match against Leon is set for 16 June – six days after England’s clash with Senegal.
Other participating clubs also have limited turnaround times. Manchester City’s opener against Wydad AC is scheduled for 18 June, while Bayern meet Auckland City and Atletico take on Paris St-Germain on 15 June. Real Madrid begins their campaign against Al Hilal on 18 June.
Speaking in March, Tuchel emphasized that player health remains his primary concern. While in close contact with clubs regarding player conditions, he made clear that his role is to act in the best interest of the national team, not to accommodate club demands. He reflected on past experiences managing at the club level and acknowledged the pride players feel when representing their countries, stating that he respected the same as a former club manager.
Martin Graham is an MFF sports writer
