Bukayo Saka Misses England Training Due to Achilles Issue
June 21, 2026 · José Morales
Bukayo Saka missed training due to an ongoing Achilles issue but is expected to be available for the match against Ghana, with Noni Madueke likely to retain his starting position.
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Bukayo Saka was absent from England's group training on Saturday as he continues to deal with an Achilles problem that has been bothering him since March. This issue makes his starting position against Ghana this week uncertain. The Arsenal winger was the only player from Thomas Tuchel’s 26-man squad not participating in the main session at Swope Soccer Village in Kansas City. Instead, Saka worked indoors on a personalized recovery program. Although he didn't start in England’s Group L opener against Croatia, he made a substitute appearance in the second half, playing 18 minutes and providing his 10th assist for England in their 4-2 victory. Despite his limited participation, Saka is expected to be available for the upcoming match against Ghana in Boston on Tuesday. However, Noni Madueke is anticipated to maintain his position on the right side as Saka’s activity is carefully managed. Both England and Ghana have started their World Cup campaigns with wins. Tuchel expressed concerns about Saka’s readiness last week, noting that the 24-year-old is still not in full form after his prolonged injury issues. “He is still not 100 percent for us," Tuchel stated. "I didn’t say Bukayo was not ready to start. But I think it is very unlikely Bukayo starts and finishes the matches all from now on.” Saka emphasized the careful management he has received from both Arsenal and England’s medical teams since the problem emerged. “I’m feeling better than I felt in the last few months. And, yeah, I’m ready to go. I’m ready to go, man," Saka remarked.
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