Tuchel ‘Worried’ as England’s Right-Back Crisis Deepens Before Last 32

Thomas Tuchel says he is worried about England’s right-back crisis heading into the World Cup 2026 last-32 tie after Jarell Quansah became the latest player in the position to suffer injury. Quansah, who started in place of the injured Reece James in the 2-0 win over Panama in New Jersey, limped off in the second half and went straight down the tunnel for treatment — leaving Tuchel facing a major dilemma before Wednesday’s knockout game in Atlanta.

Why Tuchel Is ‘Worried’ Before the Last 32

Tuchel is worried because England have now lost their specialist right-backs in quick succession. Reece James was already sidelined, and Quansah — his replacement — was forced off in the second half against Panama and headed straight down the tunnel for treatment. It leaves the England head coach with a defensive headache just 48 hours before the first knockout game.

The win over Panama did secure top spot in Group L, but the timing of the injury could hardly be worse. England’s first knockout tie kicks off in Atlanta on Wednesday at 17:00 BST, and the manager now has limited options to cover a key area of the pitch.

What Are England’s Options at Right-Back?

With both first-choice right-backs injured, Tuchel will likely have to improvise — either pushing a centre-back wide or asking a midfielder to fill in at full-back. Neither is an ideal solution against knockout opposition that will look to target a makeshift defender.

The bigger picture is squad depth: tournaments are often decided by who can absorb injuries in key positions. England topping Group L counts for little if the right side of their defence is exposed in the very next game.

FAQ