Why is Bukayo Saka not Starting Today in England vs Norway World Cup Quarterfinal?

England are up against Norway in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarterfinal today (Saturday, July 11), and Bukayo Saka has found himself on the bench.

Thomas Tuchel has named the starting XI and Saka is not starting on the right wing, as Noni Madueke has started on the right hand side.

Saka started the Round of 16 clash against Mexico and played a key part in it. The Arsenal star set up Jude Bellingham for England’s first goal as the Three Lions secured a huge 3-2 win at Estadio Azteca.

Why is Bukayo Saka not Starting Today?

Although there is no particular reason revealed behind his omission, it is understood that fitness can be the main issue.

Saka had been carefully managed throughout the tournament due to an ongoing Achilles injury from the end of the Arsenal season. Thomas Tuchel limited his early minutes, often starting Noni Madueke instead, but gradually increased Saka’s involvement. He impressed with assists against Panama and especially Mexico, showing he was ready for bigger roles.

By the Norway match, Saka declared himself “feeling great” and fit for the challenge. But it seems that may not have been enough for the Arsenal man to start.

England get Declan Rice Boost

England are missing Saka from the start but Declan Rice is fit to start in the midfield. Rice didn’t train with the team for the last two days but he has been included from the start by Tuchel. Among the other names, Jarell Quansah is out after his Red Card against Mexico, and Ezri Konsa has been handed the right back duties for this match.

England Starting XI vs Norway

Jordan Pickford; Ezri Konsa, John Stones, Marc Guehi, Nico O’Reilly; Elliot Anderson, Declan Rice; Noni Madueke, Jude Bellingham, Anthony Gordon; Harry Kane

Norway Starting XI vs England

Orjan Nyland; Julian Ryerson, Kristoffer Ajer, Torbjorn Heggem, David Moller Wolfe; Martin Odegaard, Sander Berge, Patrick Berg; Alexander Sorloth, Erling Haaland, Andreas Schjelderup