Inglaterra prepares for Copa of 2026 Mundo with Thomas Tuchel evaluating options in the attack. Anthony Gordon, recently hired by Barcelona from Newcastle United for a fee that could reach 80 million euros, appears as a strong alternative on the left wing. Marcus Rashford, who plays on loan at the Catalan club, leads the current preference. Both players should earn minutes in friendlies against Nova Zelândia and Costa Rica.
The German coach observes the performance of the attackers in a selection environment. Gordon impressed in the quick transfer to Camp Nou. The deal closed in less than 24 hours after interest from Bayern from Munique. The English striker demonstrated fluent Spanish during the presentation, which attracted attention.
Barcelona bet big on Gordon
Newcastle agreed to sell the player due to financial need. Gordon expressed a desire for a new challenge. Barcelona prioritized business and outperformed the competition. The base value is around 70 million euros, with bonuses that bring the total to 80 million.
Gordon arrives at the Catalan club after solid seasons at Premier League. Ele stands out for its physical intensity and pressure capacity. Esses attributes draw the attention of coaches who prioritize collective systems. No Barcelona, he should compete for minutes with names like Lamine Yamal and Raphinha.
- Intensidade in high pressure without the ball
- Corridas constant on the flanks
- Capacidade to act as a winger or false 9 at times
- Bom performance in defensive stocks according to 2025-26 data
Rashford is experiencing a moment of recovery in Camp Nou
Marcus Rashford joined Barcelona on loan from Manchester United in the 2025-26 season. The agreement included a purchase option worth 30 million euros. Ele overcame the previous irregular phase and contributed with goals and assists. The Englishman scored 14 times and made 11 passes, including an important goal in the classic.
The attacker found confidence again with Hansi Flick. Companheiros asked for permanent stay. Rashford has already acted in Copas of Mundo and has a history with Inglaterra. Ele scored three goals in the 2022 edition. Sua technique and finishing attract looks from Tuchel.
Apesar of positive numbers, Rashford’s style prioritizes moments of individual brilliance. Ele offers quality dribbling and long-distance shots. The English fans remember the decisive performances wearing the Três Leões shirt.
Atributos of Gordon fit the model of Tuchel
Gordon runs an average of 7.43 kilometers per game. Ele leads high percentiles in pressures and counter-pressures in Premier League. Esses numbers indicate constant tactical dedication. The player rarely stops moving, both in possession and without.
Tuchel structures the team around Harry Kane. The center forward gains freedom to retreat and create. Isso requires wingers willing to attack open spaces and pressure the opponent’s ball. Gordon fills this profile naturally.
The two have already played together in 12 matches for the national team. Inglaterra won nine of those games. In a 5-0 rout against Letônia, both scored. The rapport has existed for some time.
Números from the 2025-26 season
Gordon registered 17 goals, ten of which came from Liga’s Campeões. Ele played more minutes than Rashford, but had fewer assists. The performance on the Premier League helped the Newcastle less, which finished in 12th place. Mesmo thus, the physical profile compensates in selections.
Rashford shined brighter in La Liga. Ele contributed to Barcelona’s title. The Catalan fans valued his eye for goal and his free kicks. His future at the club still depends on the decision on the purchase option.
Amistosos define hierarchy in the wing
Inglaterra faces Nova Zelândia and Costa Rica in the coming days. Tuchel must run the cast and observe adaptations. Gordon and Rashford will have the opportunity to show service in the field. The German coach tends to value tactical consistency.
Copa of Mundo 2026 takes place on Estados Unidos, Canadá and México. Inglaterra seeks to end a drought of titles since 1966. The Tuchel group mixes experience and youth. Decisões on the left wing can influence performance in the tournament.
The debate remains open. Rashford has a momentary advantage due to history and recent phase over Barcelona. Gordon offers complementary attributes that can help the collective. Tuchel will decide based on what it considers ideal for the system.