Trent Alexander-Arnold's Champions League display against Real Madrid has intensified concerns over his World Cup prospects under Thomas Tuchel. The Liverpool defender, signed by Real for £84.5m last summer, struggled mightily, wasting possession and nearly gifting Bayern an early goal. His performance, including a pass directly to Michael Olise, was marked by a pass completion rate of just 69.2% - the lowest in the match. Despite later contributing a dangerous set-piece leading to Mbappe's equalizer, his inconsistency and defensive lapses have done little to alleviate Tuchel's reservations, especially after being overlooked for the England squad and replaced by Ben White during friendlies. This shaky showing makes a last-minute change of mind highly unlikely.

Jude Bellingham's influential cameo, however, offered a stark contrast and a potential solution to England's midfield concerns. Emerging from the bench in the final 30 minutes, the midfielder single-handedly altered Real's tempo, driving forward with trademark surges. His impact underscores the fierce competition for the England number 10 spot, with Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers, Cole Palmer, and Eberechi Eze also in contention. While Bellingham's fitness remains a question due to a hamstring injury, his performance highlights why he could be impossible to resist for the World Cup starting against Croatia.

Harry Kane's vital contribution, however, overshadowed both men. Despite initial sluggishness, the striker scored a crucial 2-1 winner with a stunning low drive, demonstrating why his absence would cripple England's chances. With 78 goals in 112 appearances, his fitness is paramount, though his recent form for Bayern has raised minor concerns. His goal, however, proved that for England's hopes, his presence is non-negotiable. Tuchel's satisfaction at having such an elite striker, whose impact is impossible to ignore, was evident after the match.