Tuchel issues fitness update on Bukayo Saka before Costa Rica friendly

England head coach Thomas Tuchel has given a fitness update on Bukayo Saka ahead of the final World Cup warm-up against Costa Rica. The winger missed the 1-0 win over New Zealand after joining the squad late following Arsenal’s involvement in the Champions League final on May 30, and staff are managing his minutes after a gruelling, title-winning campaign.

Tuchel said Saka remains a priority after withdrawing from the March international break with a setback. "We have to take care with Bukayo who had an injury in the March camp and carried it through to the club campaign," he stated. The manager praised Saka’s season — 11 goals and nine assists in 49 appearances — and described the careful management in camp.

"He made himself available and was brilliant. He was managed in between matches – we are also building him up. That continues at the moment," he added. Tuchel also delivered positive news about the rest of the Arsenal contingent: Declan Rice, Noni Madueke and Eberechi Eze are completely fit.

England

bukayo saka, thomas tuchel, england, costa rica, world cup, arsenal, champions league, injury management, declan rice, eberechi eze