Bukayo Saka is unlikely to start England’s World Cup group-stage meeting with Ghana as Thomas Tuchel continues to manage the Arsenal forward’s Achilles issue.
The 24-year-old came off the bench in England’s 4-2 win over Croatia and is being eased through the early part of the tournament rather than thrown straight back into a full starting workload.
Tuchel has indicated that Saka may be held back until the final group game against Panama, with the England and FA medical staff taking care over a problem that affected him during the final months of Arsenal’s Premier League-winning campaign, according to Sky Sports.
Arsenal will watch Saka’s England minutes closely
For Arsenal, the key detail is not just whether Saka is available, but how England use him across a condensed World Cup group stage. Tuchel said the winger is ready and getting sharper, but the cautious approach points to a clear workload plan rather than a fresh setback.
Noni Madueke is expected to remain in contention on England’s right flank against Ghana, leaving Saka as a possible impact option from the bench. That may frustrate the player, but it gives Arsenal some reassurance that his minutes are being controlled after a demanding club season.
Saka’s condition will remain one of the major Arsenal subplots of England’s tournament, especially if he is built towards a larger role against Panama and beyond.
