England defender Jarell Quansah is in the spotlight as squad selection and injuries reshape the World Cup back line; rising from youth to the senior setup, he features amid tactical tweaks and ongoing pursuit of solidity at right-back options.
England has wrapped up top spot in Group L with a 2-0 win over Panama, anchored by Jude Bellingham’s form and Harry Kane’s breakthrough. The pair have supplied goals and creativity, while questions remain over defence and depth as England prepares for the last-32 against the Democratic Republic of the Congo.
England's World Cup run faces fresh disruption as Jarell Quansah and Reece James are doubtful for the last-32 clash with DR Congo. Tuchel is scrambling for solutions amid back-line injuries, with Djed Spence likely to start and Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham delivering crucial goals.
England manager Thomas Tuchel has named a 26-man World Cup squad that has omitted Manchester United defender Harry Maguire and several high-profile players including Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Luke Shaw, while Ivan Toney and younger players have been selected; Tuchel has defended the choices as team-focused. (As of 28 May 2026.)