England manager Thomas Tuchel is reportedly concerned about Bukayo Saka’s recent form and is looking for the Arsenal winger to rediscover his best level as the Three Lions continue their international campaign.
Saka remains one of England’s most important attacking players, but his performances have come under increased scrutiny following a difficult period. Tuchel has previously acknowledged that Saka has not always been able to operate at full fitness, particularly after dealing with an Achilles problem. The England boss said earlier this year that the Arsenal star was still playing through discomfort and was not yet at 100 percent.
That situation has made Saka’s form an important subject for both Arsenal and England. The winger has established himself as a key figure for the national team, but Tuchel wants greater consistency from his attacking players, particularly with England facing a demanding schedule.
Saka’s importance to Arsenal is unquestionable. Premier League analysis previously showed that Arsenal’s win rate was higher in matches in which Saka featured during the 2025/26 campaign, while the winger also produced important goals and assists after returning from injury.
However, expectations surrounding Saka are extremely high because of his ability to influence matches from the right wing. When he is not producing his usual goals, assists, chances and dangerous attacking movements, questions naturally follow.
Tuchel’s concern does not necessarily mean that Saka has lost his place in England’s plans. Instead, the manager appears to want the Arsenal star to regain the sharpness and confidence that have made him one of the country’s leading attacking players.
England’s recent international schedule has also increased the pressure on the squad. Following their defeat against Spain in the Nations League, Tuchel rejected calls for widespread rotation and insisted that his team must maintain intensity and consistency. He stressed the importance of trusting a core group of players during the demanding international period.
Saka has already shown that he can respond strongly to difficult periods. His return from injury last season was carefully managed by Arsenal, but he still produced decisive contributions as the club chased major honours. Premier League analysis highlighted his immediate impact after returning, including goals and an assist in consecutive appearances.
For Tuchel, the challenge is therefore about getting the best version of Saka back on the pitch rather than simply questioning his ability. England have several attacking options, including Anthony Gordon, Marcus Rashford and Morgan Rogers, meaning competition for places remains intense.
Gordon, in particular, has recently impressed Tuchel, scoring in England’s 2-0 Nations League victory over Czechia. The England manager praised the forward’s goal and overall performance after the match.
That competition could encourage Saka to raise his level. The Arsenal winger knows that his reputation alone cannot guarantee a starting position, especially under a manager who has repeatedly emphasized intensity and responsibility.
Nevertheless, Saka remains an important part of Tuchel’s England project. His ability to create chances, carry the ball forward and provide a goal threat gives England an attacking dimension that few players can replicate.
The message from Tuchel is therefore likely to be one of improvement rather than abandonment. Saka has already demonstrated his quality at both club and international level, but the England manager will expect him to rediscover his consistency and influence.
With important Nations League fixtures ahead, Saka has another opportunity to answer his critics on the pitch. If he can return to his best form, England will have another major attacking weapon available as Tuchel continues to build his team.
