Tuchel's stance complicates Club World Cup preparations for Chelsea, Man City and Real Madrid

Thomas Tuchel, recently appointed manager of the England national team, is reportedly unwilling to release players early from international duty in June — a decision that could disrupt preparations for the FIFA Club World Cup, which begins on 14 June in the United States.

According to The Telegraph, Tuchel has informed the FA that he intends to keep the entire England squad together throughout the June international window. The team is scheduled to face Andorra in a World Cup qualifier before playing a friendly against Senegal on 10 June, just four days before the Club World Cup kicks off.

While the Senegal match holds no competitive stakes, some clubs had hoped their players would be granted early leave to report back for Club World Cup preparations. Tuchel has, however, ruled out making exceptions, prioritising tactical cohesion and continuity in the lead-up to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Premier League sides among the most affected

Chelsea could be without four England internationals — Cole Palmer, Reece James, Levi Colwill, and Noni Madueke — during the crucial early stages of the Club World Cup. As per 90min, the club is unlikely to challenge Tuchel’s position and is expected to allow full participation in national team duties.

Manchester City face similar limitations. Phil Foden is expected to be a central figure for England in June, with potential call-ups for Jack Grealish, John Stones, and Rico Lewis depending on form and fitness. Late returns could hinder City’s tactical preparation and squad management for the tournament.

Real Madrid’s logistical concerns

Real Madrid are closely monitoring the impact on Jude Bellingham, who is almost certain to be included in the England squad. Tuchel’s firm stance could delay Bellingham’s pre-season integration in Madrid. According to Football365, Real Madrid are planning talks with Liverpool to secure the early transfer of Trent Alexander-Arnold in order to include him in the Club World Cup squad. The club are reportedly willing to pay around €1 million (£850,000) to expedite the move.

However, Tuchel’s refusal to release players before England’s friendly against Senegal on 10 June threatens to derail those plans. The decision may prevent Alexander-Arnold from joining Madrid’s preparations in time and potentially rule him out of the tournament altogether. Tuchel’s stance could force the player to delay his integration into the new squad and miss crucial stages of pre-season adaptation.

“I will do what is best for us,” Tuchel told reporters. He acknowledged the importance of off-season recovery but placed the responsibility on football’s governing bodies for creating fixture congestion, not on national team coaches managing preparation windows.