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Saka’s Fitness Plan Ahead of Ghana: Tuchel’s Strategy Revealed

BBC Sport Football •
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Bukayo Saka joined the England squad in Boston to give coach Thomas Tuchel a fitness lift before the second World Cup game. The Arsenal winger missed much of Saturday’s session, opting for individual drills, but returned to full training on Sunday. His presence signals the manager’s concern over the team’s depth ahead of the Ghana match.

Saka is nursing an Achilles tendinitis issue that kept him on the bench for England’s 4-2 win over Croatia. Tuchel has ruled him unlikely to start until the third group game against Panama. Arsenal’s medical staff judged him fit for the League run‑in, noting the injury has worsened since the title triumph.

By cycling Saka through light work, Tuchel preserves key players for the group’s climax. Facing a tough Ghana side, the coach balances recovery against readiness. Fans will watch Saka’s recovery closely, as his return could decide England’s fate in the critical group stages and set the tone for the knockout phase.

England’s campaign hinges on squad depth after early injuries. Tuchel’s decision to ease Saka reflects a broader strategy to manage player load in a congested schedule. The outcome will influence the team’s momentum heading into the final group match against Panama, where a win could secure a comfortable top‑two finish.