Tuchel’s decision to choose Konsa over Guehi surprised some, but a look at his selections since replacing Sir Gareth Southgate shows it wasn’t unexpected.
Across England’s 15 games under Tuchel, Konsa has started 10—behind only Pickford and Harry Kane, who have 12 each. He’s also third for minutes with 933, after Pickford (1,008) and Kane (938).
Guehi, meanwhile, has started seven and played 504 minutes. It’s also notable that Tuchel was Chelsea manager when the 25-year-old was sold to Crystal Palace in July 2021.
Konsa had a few shaky spells—he was caught out of position when Petar Musa scored Croatia’s second equaliser—but Tuchel is a firm admirer of his athleticism and overall skill set, which is thought to have decided the call.
Tuchel’s faith in 32-year-old Stones—who started only five Premier League matches last season before leaving Manchester City—suggests the role alongside him is a straight fight between Konsa and Guehi.
Former England striker Chris Sutton, however, thinks Tuchel should pair Konsa with Guehi instead of starting Stones.
He told BBC Sport: “Why is it Guehi versus Konsa and not Stones?”
“I’d pick Guehi and Konsa because they’re the best defenders.”
“Don’t get me wrong, John Stones has been a great player and I hugely respect his career, but you’re talking about a guy who doesn’t even have a club for next season yet.”
“I don’t think Stones has the athleticism the other two possess.”
“It’s nothing against John—he’s been brilliant and has more composure on the ball—but once England get out of the group, which they will, you need your best defenders when you’re up against the best attackers.”
“Konsa and Guehi are stronger in one-on-one situations than John Stones, and there will be times when they’re left one-on-one against top-class players.”