England’s 5–0 victory over Latvia may have secured their World Cup ticket in style, but the celebrations quickly turned into a heated debate after Paul Scholes voiced strong concerns about the squad selection.
The former Manchester United legend believes the Three Lions are setting themselves up for disappointment if three key names — Jude Bellingham, Jack Grealish, and Phil Foden — aren’t included in next summer’s trip to the United States.
While England cruised past Latvia thanks to goals from Anthony Gordon, Harry Kane, and Eberechi Eze, Scholes wasn’t convinced the current lineup could replicate that kind of performance on the biggest stage.
Kane’s quick-fire double before halftime put the result beyond doubt, and a late strike from Eze sealed an emphatic win that left manager Thomas Tuchel’s men looking confident and cohesive.
Yet, despite the impressive display, Scholes insisted the squad still lacked its essential creative spark.
Scholes Questions Tuchel’s Selection Choices
Speaking on The Overlap, Scholes admitted he was “surprised” to see some of England’s biggest stars missing from Tuchel’s latest selection.
“Those three players have to be in his squad,” he said bluntly.
“Without them, England have virtually no chance of winning the World Cup.
Even with them, it’s a huge challenge, but at least they give you that fighting chance.”
The former midfielder went on to question Tuchel’s reasoning, pointing out that time is running out to fine-tune the team before the tournament.
“Jude might have missed a few games, but he’s fit now,” Scholes added.
“There are only a couple of international breaks left — in November and March — before the World Cup begins. We can’t afford to waste them.”
Why the Omission Has Left Fans and Legends Puzzled
Tuchel’s decision to leave out the likes of Bellingham, Foden, and Grealish came as a shock to fans and pundits alike.
The German coach reportedly wanted to reward players who had performed well in previous qualifiers, but that approach hasn’t sat well with many.
On The Good, The Bad and The Football podcast, Scholes doubled down, saying, “I don’t agree with it. The current squad just isn’t strong enough to win the World Cup.
Those three — Bellingham, Grealish, and Foden — are England’s best players. Leaving them out makes no sense to me.”
The Trio’s Form and Road to Redemption
Bellingham, back in action for Real Madrid after recovering from shoulder surgery, remains one of England’s brightest young stars and a pivotal figure during their run to the Euro 2024 final under Gareth Southgate.
Meanwhile, Foden and Grealish have both rediscovered their rhythm this season — Foden flourishing again at Manchester City, and Grealish showing flashes of brilliance in Everton’s new system.
Despite their temporary exclusion, the trio are expected to be closely watched ahead of England’s final two qualifiers against Serbia and Albania in November.
Many fans are hopeful Tuchel will recall them, especially with the World Cup only months away and the competition for spots intensifying.
What Comes Next for England’s World Cup Dream
As England’s preparations continue, Tuchel faces one of his toughest challenges yet — balancing loyalty to his current squad with the undeniable talent of those left out.
Scholes’ comments have reignited the debate over what kind of team England need to truly compete for football’s biggest prize.
For now, all eyes will be on the November international break — the last real opportunity for fringe players to make their case and for Tuchel to decide whether experience and flair will return to the lineup.
One thing is certain: if Scholes is right, England’s World Cup ambitions may hinge on whether those three key names are back in the fold before it’s too late.