Thomas Tuchel has confirmed that Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka is still battling a niggling Achilles issue and is unlikely to start the World Cup at full intensity. The England boss said Saka arrived late to the pre‑tournament camp, did his own fitness work over the weekend, but remains behind his Arsenal teammates Declan Rice, Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze, who all enjoyed extra rest after the Champions League final.
How serious is Bukayo Saka’s Achilles problem?
Tuchel was blunt: “Declan is on 100 per cent and Bukayo is still getting there, playing through discomfort at the end of the season, but obviously managing it and playing at a high level, but still not on his 100 per cent.” He added that Saka is being “built and taken care of in training” while the others are already at peak fitness. The manager hinted the Achilles niggle is more than a sore muscle – it’s affecting Saka’s ability to train consistently, something the England side cannot afford so close to the tournament.
Tuchel also praised Arsenal’s handling of the situation, noting they “took very good care of him and were very aware of it.” He promised a similar approach in England camp, but admitted Saka can’t yet endure “every training session through the week and then play.” The manager and the player decided together to let him “play through his pain and discomfort,” even if it meant missing full‑week sessions.
Will Bukayo Saka be fit for England’s World Cup opener?
Answer: Not yet. Tuchel’s latest comments make it clear Saka is still on the road to recovery and will be managed carefully, meaning he may not start the tournament at 100 per cent.
The man is cooking, but the chef still needs a bit more time. England will have to adapt, and Ugandan supporters will be watching every training clip, hoping the Arsenal star can at least contribute off the bench.
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Source: Mirror
