It’s been over a year since Ivan Toney last wore the England shirt, and many had assumed his international days might be behind him—especially after his move away from the Premier League to Saudi Arabia.
But today, things are about to change. Reports say Thomas Tuchel is set to recall Toney to the England squad for the first time since the Euro 2024 tournament.
This could be a welcome boost for the striker, who has been quietly impressing far from the English spotlight.
From Euro 2024 to Saudi Arabia: Toney’s Journey
Toney was part of the England squad that reached the Euro 2024 final under Gareth Southgate, but he hasn’t been called up since then.
After the tournament, he left Brentford to join Al-Ahli in Saudi Arabia last summer—a move that some thought might have ended his international career.
However, Toney’s impressive goal tally in the Middle East has kept him on the radar.
In his first season at Al-Ahli, the 29-year-old striker has bagged 29 goals in 43 games—a remarkable strike rate that’s hard to ignore.
Despite not playing in the Premier League for a full year, Toney looks set for a fresh chance with England.
Memories of Euro 2024: Toney’s Impact
Though often used as a substitute during the Euros, Toney made his mark in key moments.
He famously set up Harry Kane’s winning goal against Slovakia in the round of 16, and he coolly scored a penalty in the shootout win over Switzerland to send England through to the semi-finals.
He also appeared late in the final against Spain, but it wasn’t enough to prevent England from falling 2-1.
Those moments showed Toney’s potential on the international stage, and now he has the chance to build on that under Tuchel.
A New Challenge Under Thomas Tuchel
Harry Kane remains England’s number one striker, but Tuchel seems ready to shake things up.
Toney is likely competing with Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins and Tottenham’s Dominic Solanke to be Kane’s understudy or cover when the captain needs a rest.
Tuchel’s willingness to recall Toney, despite his absence from the Premier League, speaks to the German coach’s bold approach.
He previously brought Jordan Henderson back into the squad in March, a move that surprised many given Henderson’s age and previous omission.
What’s Next for England and Toney?
England have started well under Tuchel, winning their opening World Cup qualifiers against Albania and Malta comfortably.
Their next fixtures in June include a qualifier against Andorra and a friendly against Senegal at the City Ground.
The Senegal game could be the perfect opportunity for Toney to get some minutes on the pitch and prove he still has plenty to offer for England.
If he performs well, this recall might be the start of a new chapter in his international career—one that many fans will be watching with great interest.