England's emphatic 5-0 victory over Serbia on Tuesday night showcased a performance that has silenced many critics, but it has also thrown up fresh questions for Thomas Tuchel as he finalizes his starting XI ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The win, which saw Harry Kane, Noni Madueke, Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi, and Marcus Rashford all find the net, marked a significant step toward qualifying for the tournament. However, the manager now faces a challenging dilemma: balancing a wealth of talent across key positions.
One of the standout performers was Elliot Anderson, who claimed player-of-the-match honors in his first two senior international appearances. His composed midfield presence has addressed a long-standing gap in England's lineup, with many believing the 21-year-old has secured a starting role as a No. 6. Yet, the success of other players in this camp has complicated Tuchel's task. Several of England's top talents, including Bukayo Saka and Jude Bellingham, were absent during this international break, leaving room for emerging stars to shine.
The right-wing position has become a focal point of debate. Noni Madueke, who netted his first international goal in Belgrade, has emerged as a strong contender. However, the question remains: can he displace Saka, a consistent performer in recent major tournaments? Tuchel may find himself in a similar predicament to Mikel Arteta at Arsenal, where balancing young talents with established stars is a recurring challenge. Alternatives like Jarrod Bowen, Morgan Rogers, and Cole Palmer add depth, but Madueke's potential as an impact substitute or a flexible wide attacker could be key to his inclusion in the World Cup squad.
Meanwhile, the No. 10 role is a more straightforward conundrum. Jude Bellingham, a generational talent, is the clear first-choice in that position, with others like Phil Foden and Cole Palmer likely to play second fiddle. Foden's recent struggles with form have only heightened this dynamic. Eberechi Eze and Morgan Rogers stepped into the role during this camp, with Rogers delivering a standout assist for Madueke's goal. However, Eze's lack of Premier League minutes due to his move to Arsenal has left him slightly out of rhythm, while Rogers' versatility might see him transition to a different position, such as the left wing, to maximize his impact.
As Tuchel prepares for the World Cup, the challenge lies in harmonizing emerging stars with seasoned players, ensuring the squad is both competitive and cohesive. With the tournament just nine months away, the decisions made now could shape England's prospects on the global stage.
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