Tuchel England national team coach had reached to Ben White, Arsenal’s 27-year-old defender, has been noticeably absent from the England national team since his unexpected departure from the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The Football Association cited “personal reasons” for his mid-tournament exit, while reports from The Athletic suggested Ben White struggled with being out of the starting lineup and faced challenges adjusting to life away from home.
Despite this setback, Ben White has solidified his position as one of the Premier League’s top right-backs, becoming an essential part of Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal squad. His performances have garnered widespread acclaim, making his exclusion from Gareth Southgate’s England setups, including the Euro 2024 provisional squad, a topic of debate. Southgate previously stated, “as I am aware, he’s not available to us,” casting doubt on White’s potential return to the national fold.
Qualifying Campaign and Managerial Challenges
England’s 2026 World Cup qualifying group presents a mixed challenge, with the team drawn against Serbia, Albania, Latvia, and Andorra. Tuchel enters this campaign as the third non-British permanent manager of the men’s team, following in the footsteps of Sven-Goran Eriksson and Fabio Capello. His impressive trophy-winning record across multiple top-tier European clubs adds significant weight to his appointment.
The German manager is acutely aware of the mixed reactions surrounding his selection, acknowledging the pressure to deliver England’s first major trophy since 1966. His commitment to giving “everything” and describing the role as a “dream job” suggests a passionate approach to leading the national team through this crucial qualifying period.
Tuchel Promises a ‘Clean Slate
New England manager Thomas Tuchel, who is set to officially assume his role on January 1, has signaled a fresh approach. Speaking about the potential inclusion of Ben White, Tuchel assured reporters, “Yes, I will reach out to him.” The German tactician emphasized his intent to provide a “clean slate” for all eligible players, underscoring his commitment to inclusivity and merit-based selection.
Tuchel revealed he has not yet contacted Ben White or any other England players, including captain Harry Kane. Instead, he plans to begin his player assessments in January when he starts attending Premier League matches. “It should be clean and a clean start and a clear narrative,” Tuchel stated. “I will of course try to speak to them but also be respectful to the schedule that they have.”
Ben White’s Current Injury Woes
Ben White’s road to an England return is complicated by his current injury status. The defender is recovering from a knee procedure that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta announced in November would keep him sidelined for several months. This setback means White’s availability for the national team remains uncertain as Tuchel begins his tenure.
Arteta has been vocal about the importance of allowing White adequate time to recover fully, ensuring his long-term fitness. While White’s absence has been felt at Arsenal, the team has adapted in his absence, showcasing the depth of their squad. However, his recovery timeline may limit his chances of impressing Tuchel early in the year.
Tuchel’s Vision for England
Thomas Tuchel’s appointment marks a new era for the England national team, with the former Chelsea and PSG manager eager to establish a unified and competitive squad. His approach emphasizes transparency and respect for players’ schedules, particularly during the demanding Premier League season.
Tuchel’s comments suggest a focus on rebuilding relationships and fostering a positive environment within the squad. His willingness to reach out to players like Ben White signals a commitment to inclusivity and fairness, offering a glimmer of hope for White’s return to international football. As January approaches, all eyes will be on Tuchel’s early decisions and their impact on England’s preparations for upcoming tournaments.
