Former Wayne Rooney has criticised Thomas Tuchel over the reported omission of Trent Alexander-Arnold from England’s World Cup squad plans.

Rooney questioned the decision to leave out one of England’s most technically gifted defenders, arguing that Alexander-Arnold’s creativity, passing range, and experience make him a valuable asset on the international stage.

The debate has quickly sparked reactions among football fans and analysts, many of whom remain divided over the Liverpool star’s role within the England setup. While some believe his attacking strengths are unmatched, others continue to raise concerns about his defensive consistency.

Alexander-Arnold has long been one of the most discussed players in English football, especially when it comes to balancing his club performances with international expectations. At Liverpool FC, he has consistently been praised for redefining the modern full-back role through his playmaking ability and vision.

Rooney’s comments add pressure to Tuchel, who is already facing intense scrutiny over squad decisions ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Football experts note that major tournaments often bring difficult selection choices, especially for teams with deep talent pools like England national football team. However, leaving out a high-profile player like Alexander-Arnold is always likely to generate strong public reaction.

As discussions continue, fans will be watching closely to see whether the situation changes before the final squad announcement.

For now, Rooney’s criticism has added another layer to an already heated conversation surrounding England’s World Cup preparations.