Rooney criticizes Tuchel for not choosing Luke Shaw to replace Livramento.

Wayne Rooney has launched a scathing critique of Thomas Tuchel for the surprising decision to call up Trevoh Chalobah instead of Luke Shaw to fill in for Tino Livramento in the England squad. The German coach opted for the Chelsea defender to replace the injured Livramento, who was forced to withdraw from the World Cup just before the start of England’s campaign, which is set to kick off on Wednesday against Croatia. This choice has sparked controversy, especially considering Shaw’s excellent form in recent months while playing for Manchester United.

The change in England’s squad was announced following the confirmation of Livramento’s injury, the Newcastle United defender, who will be sidelined for at least a month. Thomas Tuchel justified the choice of Chalobah, explaining that this option offers greater defensive versatility, as Jarrell Quansah can play as a full-back on both flanks, just like Djed Spence. “Tino has a four to five-week injury which, unfortunately, is too long for us to reintegrate him into the team,” Tuchel explained. “We called up Trevoh Chalobah because that frees up Jarrell Quansah to play as a full-back on both sides, and Djed Spence can also fill that role, so it gives us full coverage in defense,” added the England manager.


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However, Rooney did not hide his astonishment and disappointment with this decision, calling it “strange,” especially considering Shaw’s performance at the end of the 2025/26 season. “It’s a bit strange,” Rooney stated on the BBC, commenting on Tuchel’s call-up. “I would have liked to have seen Luke Shaw. And then Djed Spence perhaps providing cover for Reece James and Luke Shaw coming in. But I’m sure Thomas Tuchel has kept in touch with the players to ensure they are available, and I am sure he [Chalobah] was one of those who was available,” clarified the former forward and Manchester United legend.

Rooney had publicly praised Luke Shaw last month, highlighting his development as a key player for Manchester United. “For me, Luke Shaw has been the player who has evolved the most this season,” Rooney emphasized on his podcast. “I know he is already an experienced player, but I think his level this season has been much better than in previous years. People might look at Kobbie Mainoo, but I don’t think he has evolved. He simply wasn’t playing under the previous coach, so it wasn’t good or bad.”

This controversy takes on even greater relevance considering the decisive phase of the World Cup, where any detail can be crucial for a team’s success or failure. Tuchel’s choice could be seen as a risky bet, especially if the English defense shows weaknesses in the flanks, as Luke Shaw, in addition to his international experience, offers greater offensive depth and defensive consistency. Tuchel himself acknowledged that he has prioritized versatility in his selections, but Shaw’s absence, one of the most in-form players in English football, could cost England dearly.

With the opening match against Croatia approaching, all eyes will be on the performance of the English defensive line. If Chalobah or the alternatives chosen by Tuchel are not up to the challenge, the pressure on the coach will inevitably increase, especially if Shaw continues to shine at Old Trafford and proves he deserved a spot among the selected players. For now, it remains to be seen whether the bet on defensive versatility will be enough to stop the Croatian armada and ensure a victorious start for England in the World Cup. The controversy is underway, and the consequences of Tuchel’s decision may be felt in the coming days, in an atmosphere of immense expectation and demand from English fans.

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