Gary Lineker calls Thomas Tuchel’s Trent Alexander-Arnold omission ‘personal’

Former England striker Gary Lineker has accused national team manager Thomas Tuchel of making a “personal” and “insulting” decision by continually omitting Trent Alexander-Arnold from his squad.

The 27-year-old Real Madrid defender was left out of this month’s international fixtures, with Ben White called up to replace the injured Jarell Quansah.

Alexander-Arnold has made just a single appearance for the Three Lions since Tuchel took charge 15 months ago.

‘It makes absolutely no sense’

Speaking on The Rest is Football podcast, Lineker expressed his bewilderment at the ongoing situation.

“I think there’s something personal because football-wise there’s no argument.”

“I can’t see how he can not be in that squad because he has to improve your chances, even if it’s from the bench.”

The former Liverpool star appears to have fallen significantly down the right-back pecking order under the current regime.

Reece James, Tino Livramento, Quansah and White are all currently preferred options for the German coach.

Struggles on the international stage

Alexander-Arnold previously faced difficulties during Euro 2024 when deployed in midfield by former boss Gareth Southgate.

The versatile playmaker was dropped from the starting line-up after just two group-stage matches during that tournament.

However, Lineker remains adamant that the current squad lacks the unique creative quality provided by the Champions League winner.

“So I suspect there’s something that Tuchel does not like about Trent Alexander-Arnold.”

“I’m just guessing in terms of what it might be, whether it’s his attitude, whether it’s he’s not brilliant defensively.”

Comparisons with returning White

The debate has been further intensified by the recall of Arsenal defender White.

White had previously made himself unavailable for international selection following reported disagreements within the England camp.

Lineker suggested that selecting other full-backs ahead of Alexander-Arnold is effectively a slight on his undeniable ability.

“You got players playing in his position, with all due respect, that are not in the same league as him, certainly with the ball at his feet.”

“As you saw in these kinds of games, you need someone with a bit of magic to unlock things, and he will provide you that.”