Bukayo Saka speaks out after bench role vs. Argentina
Bukayo Saka admitted he wanted more playing time at the World Cup after inspiring England to third place, while Thomas Tuchel defended his selection decisions.
Bukayo Saka said he wished he had featured more for England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after scoring a hat-trick in the 6-4 victory over France that secured third place.
The Arsenal winger told the BBC he preferred to let his performances do the talking, adding that it was not the right time to dwell on his limited opportunities. Reports also dismissed suggestions that fitness issues kept him out.
England manager Thomas Tuchel left Saka out of the starting line-up for the semi-final defeat to Argentina, and opted for Morgan Rogers based on instinct rather than concerns over Saka’s ability.
Although Tuchel maintained the winger remained a key player, fans will forever look back at his absence for the semi-final loss to Argentina as unforgivable, even though England ultimately secured their best World Cup finish since 1966.
