LONDON, March 30 - England manager Thomas Tuchel said he was not disappointed by players withdrawing from the squad ahead of Friday’s friendly against Japan, calling the absences a natural consequence of grueling club schedules.
Eight players left camp due to injury or fatigue, including goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, defender Fikayo Tomori, striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, and Arsenal’s Noni Madueke, who was injured during the 1-1 draw with Uruguay. Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka also returned to Arsenal.
"It’s the reality of end-of-season congestion," Tuchel said. "Players have already exceeded last season’s minute count. They needed a mental break. Their desire to return and engage with the group shows their commitment."
England’s final pre-World Cup camp concludes with matches against Japan and Costa Rica before the tournament begins June 11 in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
Tuchel declined to compare England with favorites like France, stating, "We’re focused on our principles - not external benchmarks. We’re building, not benchmarking."