Tuchel would not rule out non-top‑flight England picks if City relegated
October 2, 2026 17:30
WHAT HAPPENED
The commission found City guilty of all charges relating to breaches of the Premier League's financial rules between 2009-10 and 2017-18. The club denies guilt and has appealed, describing the ruling as containing "clear material errors, of law, principle and fact and is unsafe." Sanctions have not yet been decided; potential punishments mentioned include expulsion from the league, points deductions and fines.
Tuchel said the City case is a "big subject" in the England camp and confirmed it had been discussed with players. Asked if he would select players not playing in the top flight, he replied: "There is always a possibility. I would always try to pick the best team for the camp, for the occasion, for the tournament. I will never rule out that because they don't play in the top flight in their country. We need to look at it case by case."
He added that players have talked about the verdict in camp but that he was "glad to be not that voice. No-one needs my half knowledge on the topic." He said City players in the squad are "ready to go tomorrow, that's what they show on the pitch and in camp. But of course, it's a big topic in the camp."
KEY CONTEXT
All 24 players in the current England squad play in top leagues for their clubs. It is rare for a player to represent England while not in a top division, though the source notes past exceptions: James Trafford was named in Tuchel squads in March and June 2025 while still in the Championship with Burnley (unused substitute on those occasions and did not win a full cap until he returned to Manchester City); Sam Johnstone last represented England while playing in the Championship for West Brom in 2021; and Kalvin Phillips made his debut for England while at Leeds before he had played in the Premier League.
NEXT STEPS
England are preparing to play Croatia in the Nations League in Rijeka on Saturday (17:00 BST). The final decision on any sanctions against Manchester City remains pending while the club's appeal is considered.