England’s World Cup 2026 hopes have been shaken by Gary Neville’s blunt assessment of Bukayo Saka, who he says “doesn’t look right at all”. The former Three Lions defender, along with Ian Wright, has voiced serious concern over the Arsenal winger’s fitness as he manages a persistent injury that has reduced him to a bit-part role on the global stage. With the knockout rounds looming, Saka’s condition is now a defining question for England’s campaign.
Why Neville and Wright are worried about Saka
Gary Neville is worried because Bukayo Saka “doesn’t look right at all” — a shadow of the explosive Arsenal winger who normally terrorises defenders one-on-one. A persistent injury appears to be limiting his sharpness, and he has been restricted to a bit-part role for England at the 2026 World Cup rather than starting and dictating play down the right.
Ian Wright echoed the concern, knowing how central Saka is to England’s attacking blueprint. When fully fit, the winger offers the kind of dribbling, end product and pressing intensity that few in the squad can replicate, so any drop-off forces the coaching staff to rethink the entire right flank heading into the most demanding stage of the tournament.
What it means for England’s knockout chances
If Saka cannot start, England lose one of their most reliable game-changers just as margins get tighter in the knockout rounds. The Three Lions will need someone to provide width and penetration on the right, and the bench depth in that area is now under the spotlight as the squad prepares for potential 120-minute battles.
There is a silver lining: managing Saka’s minutes now could keep him available for the matches that matter most. Rather than risk aggravating the injury, England may use him in shorter, high-impact cameos — a calculated gamble that the staff hope keeps their star winger fresh for a deep run toward the final.
FAQ
Why is Gary Neville concerned about Bukayo Saka?
Gary Neville said Saka ‘doesn’t look right at all’ because a persistent injury appears to be limiting his sharpness, leaving him in a bit-part role for England at the 2026 World Cup.
Is Bukayo Saka injured at the 2026 World Cup?
Reports indicate Saka has been managing a persistent injury that has restricted his minutes and influence, prompting concern from pundits like Neville and Ian Wright.
Will Saka start for England in the knockout rounds?
His starting role is in doubt; England may manage his minutes with short, high-impact appearances to protect him for the biggest matches.
Who can replace Saka on England’s right wing?
England’s squad depth on the right flank is now under scrutiny, with the coaching staff weighing alternatives to provide width and penetration if Saka cannot start.
When do England’s knockout matches begin at World Cup 2026?
The knockout stage begins once the group stage concludes in late June 2026, running through to the final in July.
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