Newcastle star Tino Libramento was dropped from England’s World Cup squad the day before the Three Lions’ opening group game, with his replacement already announced.
Trent Alexander-Arnold once again ignored by manager Thomas Tuchel (Image: Getty Images)
England manager Thomas Tuchel has once again ignored Trent Alexander-Arnold, citing arrangements to bring him to America and his fit in the current squad.
The Real Madrid defender appeared to have been handed a lifeline in the final stages of the World Cup on Tuesday after Tino Libramento left the squad with an injury.
However, it was later confirmed that Chelsea’s Trevor Chalobah had been called up in his place. The FA said in a statement: “Trevo Chalobah has been called up to England’s 26-man squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as Tino Libramento is unfortunately unavailable due to injury.
“Arrangements are currently being made for the Chelsea defender to travel to the team’s base camp in Kansas City, while the rest of the squad will head to Dallas, Texas for the Three Lions’ group opener against Croatia on Wednesday.”
“Under FIFA regulations, participating teams are allowed to substitute outfield players up to 24 hours before the opening game.
“Newcastle United defender Libramento sustained a calf injury during training on Sunday afternoon. Subsequent tests and medical tests on Monday unfortunately confirmed that he will be unable to play any further in the tournament in England.”
It was explained why Tuchel did not choose Alexander-Arnold as his successor. According to Sky Sports, FA leaders do not actually know the defender’s whereabouts, leading to concerns about whether he will arrive in time for the United States.
Meanwhile, manager Tuchel has taken a hard line against bringing big names to the World Cup who are not guaranteed playing time, and Alexander-Arnold also falls into that category.
Trevor Chalobah has been called up to replace Tino Livramento (Image: Getty Images)
The decision takes the former Liverpool star to 34 caps, but only one of those came under current manager Tuchel. Regarding the defender’s absence earlier this year, the German coach said:
“I have played against him many times and struggled against my team at Liverpool, so I know his strength and what he can give.
“But at the moment we seem to have evidence of how well we were in September, October and November. The players who are in camp as right-backs have to push for their tickets, they have to compete and they have to show once again that they deserve this.”
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