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Thomas Tuchel has stated that assembling the most talented footballers does not guarantee creating the most effective team unit. He hinted that even if the Real Madrid midfielder had returned to peak fitness following his shoulder problem, he might still have missed out from the recent national team selection.

Emphasis on Squad Harmony

The Three Lions' manager further revealed that Bukayo Saka's recall may not have happened had his fellow Arsenal player Noni Madueke remained fit. The coach has put significant emphasis on team cohesion with his choices for the upcoming friendly against Wales and World Cup qualifier in Latvia.

"We're creating the best team," stated Tuchel, who challenged the traditional thinking that World Cup winners typically choose their top forwards.

Previous Results

Tuchel pointed to the excellent atmosphere during last month's campaign when England defeated Andorra and excelled against Serbia in Bellingham's absence. He saw little justification to alter the squad chemistry that produced such positive results.

• Jude Bellingham excluded despite club comeback
• Foden not included despite improved form
• Grealish additionally was excluded

Fitness Considerations

While Tuchel partially attributed Bellingham's absence due to physical condition, he acknowledged that the midfielder wanted to be included when they spoke. Tuchel had previously said sorry to the midfielder for remarks about his on-field behavior.

"Would you agree that behavior from substitutes, support from training, and team togetherness allows the starting eleven to perform at their best?" he questioned.

Team Choices Explained

Tuchel emphasized that his selections weren't individual against any player but rather recognized those who had delivered in the last campaign.

"What would be my explanation to leave them out while remaining credible in my words?" Tuchel asked.

Necessary Adjustments

The sole alteration in selection proved necessary with the unfit Noni Madueke making way for the returning Bukayo Saka. Tuchel clarified that the Arsenal winger could have been excluded if Madueke stayed healthy.

Additional omissions included Chelsea's attacking midfielder, who remains to struggle with fitness issues. Given just two additional gatherings before the World Cup, opportunities are diminishing for certain individuals to impress.

World Cup Scheduling Concerns

Tuchel expressed his preference for England's World Cup games to begin at later times due to heat concerns in North America. Tuchel recognized this might cause watching problems for English fans but insisted player welfare must come first.

"I understand supporters won't be happy but for the team it's better with later kickoffs," he stated. "The players make the sport and we have safeguard them."