Doubts Rise Over Foden's 2026 World Cup Spot After Friendlies

England's recent international friendlies ended in disappointment, casting fresh doubts over Phil Foden's place in Thomas Tuchel's squad for the 2026 World Cup as the Manchester City midfielder struggled to make an impact.

The Three Lions drew 1-1 with Uruguay on Friday before suffering a 1-0 defeat to Japan on Tuesday, both matches played at Wembley Stadium. The results marked Tuchel's second loss in 12 games as England manager and highlighted ongoing concerns about the team's attacking creativity. With captain Harry Kane sidelined by injury, Foden was deployed in an unfamiliar false nine role against Japan but registered the fewest touches among starters and failed to influence the game. He had started both fixtures, playing 56 minutes against Uruguay before being substituted by Cole Palmer, and 59 minutes against Japan, replaced by Dominic Solanke.

Tuchel praised Foden's attitude in camp but questioned his effectiveness on the pitch. "He tried everything. I would say he was excellent in camp but he struggles to show it on the pitch," the German coach said after the Japan match. "Obviously he didn't have a lot of minutes for City recently, then he came to camp with the...