England Squad Revealed: Alexander-Arnold Omitted, Rashford Returns as Tuchel Unveils Surprise Debutants

England Squad Announcement: Alexander-Arnold Dropped, Rashford Recalled, New Faces Named
By Alex McCarthy, Sports News Editor | Updated: 14:24 BST, 29 August 2025

[Image: Thomas Tuchel at a press conference. Caption: Thomas Tuchel announces his first England squad since taking charge.]

Thomas Tuchel has unveiled his first England squad as head coach for next month’s World Cup qualifiers against Andorra and Serbia, delivering major surprises including the omission of Trent Alexander-Arnold and recalls for Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho. Two uncapped players—Liverpool defender Jarell Quansah and midfielder Curtis Jones—also earned shock call-ups.

Key Squad Changes

Alexander-Arnold Axed

Tuchel confirmed that Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold was left out of the 25-man squad due to tactical concerns.
“Trent is a phenomenal player, but we’ve prioritized profiles that fit our system better for these matches,” Tuchel said. Kyle Walker, Reece James, and Kieran Trippier will cover the right-back role.

[Image: Trent Alexander-Arnold in action for Liverpool. Caption: Alexander-Arnold misses out despite strong club form.]

Rashford and Sancho Return

Marcus Rashford (Manchester United) and Jadon Sancho (Barcelona) return after excelling domestically. Rashford last played for England in 2023, while Sancho’s international exile ends after 18 months.
“Marcus’s work rate and finishing stood out. Jadon brings creativity we’ve lacked,” Tuchel explained.

Debutants Quansah and Jones

Liverpool’s Jarell Quansah (22) and Curtis Jones (24) received their first-ever call-ups. Quansah’s composure in defense impressed Tuchel, while Jones’ versatility in midfield earned him a spot over established names like Jordan Henderson.

Controversial Omissions

Raheem Sterling (Chelsea) was excluded, with Tuchel citing “physical freshness” concerns.
James Maddison (Tottenham) and Mason Mount (Manchester United) also missed out.
Goalkeeper Nick Pope returns, replacing injured Sam Johnstone.

Tuchel’s Tactical Vision

The German coach hinted at a 3-4-3 formation, emphasizing defensive solidity and quick transitions. “We need balance. Serbia and Andorra pose different challenges, but domination is key.”

[Image: Marcus Rashford celebrating a goal. Caption: Rashford’s resurgence earns him a Three Lions recall.]

Reaction & Analysis

Gary Neville (Sky Sports): “Dropping Trent is bold. England’s depth at right-back allows risks.”
Micah Richards (BBC): “Quansah and Jones are wildcards, but Tuchel trusts youth.”
Fans expressed frustration online over Sterling’s exclusion despite his four goals this season.

Confirmed England Squad

Goalkeepers: Jordan Pickford (Everton), Aaron Ramsdale (Arsenal), Nick Pope (Newcastle).
Defenders: Kyle Walker (Man City), Reece James (Chelsea), Kieran Trippier (Newcastle), John Stones (Man City), Harry Maguire (Man United), Jarell Quansah (Liverpool), Levi Colwill (Chelsea), Marc Guéhi (Crystal Palace).
Midfielders: Declan Rice (Arsenal), Curtis Jones (Liverpool), Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid), Kalvin Phillips (Man City), Conor Gallagher (Chelsea).
Forwards: Marcus Rashford (Man United), Jadon Sancho (Barcelona), Phil Foden (Man City), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Jack Grealish (Man City), Harry Kane (Bayern Munich), Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa).

[Image: Curtis Jones training with Liverpool. Caption: Curtis Jones’ dynamic midfield displays secure a surprise call-up.]

Upcoming Fixtures

Sept 5: England vs. Andorra (Wembley)
Sept 9: Serbia vs. England (Belgrade)

Tuchel’s revamped squad faces pressure to deliver after a mixed Euro 2024 campaign. With fierce competition for places, all eyes will be on how England’s new era begins.

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England’s bold new chapter under Tuchel begins with shock squad shake-up.