England’s dramatic World Cup semi-final loss to Argentina began with Tuchel deploying Morgan Rogers on the right. The Aston Villa attacker quickly validated that call by crossing for Anthony Gordon’s goal early in the second half.
England then looked poised to reach a first World Cup final in six decades, until Tuchel shifted to a more defensive setup midway through the half. Argentina wrested back momentum, with Enzo Fernandez equalizing on 85 minutes before Lautaro Martinez headed in Lionel Messi’s delivery in stoppage time to seal a stunning turnaround.
Bukayo Saka warmed up late on but was not introduced, a choice that swiftly became one of the tournament’s hot topics. Tuchel maintained it should not be seen as a lack of trust.
“He was outstanding. Bukayo is central to what we do,” the England manager said after the win over France, adding that while Saka was ready at the World Cup, he felt a duty to manage him carefully given his background and recent journey.
Saka started plenty of matches, Tuchel noted, and leaving him out of the semi-final was a difficult call. After the Norway game, he felt Rogers’ physical attributes offered a specific edge against Argentina. Saka was told to get ready several times, but as the match descended into chaos they opted for another route.
Tuchel stressed nothing has changed: Saka remains a top teammate, a top player, and a cornerstone for England, as he demonstrated again.