England's Bukayo Saka fitness in doubt for World Cup opener vs Croatia

England are gearing up for their 2026 FIFA World Cup opening match against Croatia at Dallas Stadium in Arlington on June 17. Manager Thomas Tuchel is closely monitoring right‑winger Bukayo Saka, who played only a brief spell in a recent friendly against Costa Rica because of lingering Achilles discomfort. Saka, capped 49 times with 14 goals for the Three Lions, remains a key player if he can pass the fitness test.

Former striker Darren Bent and other pundits suggest that if Saka is ruled out, winger Noni Madueke could start on the flank, citing Tuchel’s apparent confidence in Madueke’s recent performances. Tuchel noted after the friendly, “We see the adaptation to the heat, and we see things clicking,” while Bent remarked, “I think Tuchel likes Madueke.” The decision will shape England’s attacking options for the crucial first match.