Arabic version: توخيل يشير إلى أن ساكا قد لا يبدأ ضد غانا

England head coach Thomas Tuchel has hinted that Bukayo Saka is unlikely to be in contention to start against Ghana on Tuesday. Saka came off the bench in the 4-2 World Cup win over Croatia on Wednesday, and immediately provided an assist to fellow substitute Marcus Rashford, who slotted home England’s fourth.

According to BBC News, Tuchel mentioned that Saka has been managing an Achilles tendinitis issue since before the tournament. Although Saka insisted he was ready to play and was prepared to “gamble” on his fitness to help the team during the World Cup, Tuchel believes it is best to hold him back until the final group game against Panama on June 27.

Tuchel stated, “Bukayo is ready and will get more and more ready. I think once we go to the last game of this group he will be ready.” This indicates a cautious approach to Saka’s fitness, as he has been carrying the issue for some time.

While Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has kept information about Saka’s condition relatively private, Tuchel’s comments have drawn attention to the player’s fitness. It appears that the England coach is prioritizing Saka’s long-term availability, recognizing his potential importance in the later stages of the World Cup.