England’s performance at the recent World Cup in North America has left questions about the future composition of the national team as it looks ahead to the European Championship in 2028, which will be hosted on home soil. Following their semi-final loss to Argentina, scrutiny has mounted on which players are likely to feature in the starting lineup under manager Thomas Tuchel in four years’ time.

At goalkeeper, Jordan Pickford appears to have one more major tournament left in him. The 32-year-old Everton player, whose club last participated in European competition in 2017, has comparatively lower physical strain than some of his teammates. Pickford demonstrated his ability to perform in critical moments during the World Cup, with no blame attached to him for the goals conceded against Argentina. However, competition from 23-year-old James Trafford is intensifying. Trafford, who was an unused substitute in the recent tournament, is expected to leave Manchester City in search of regular playing time, with Newcastle a likely destination. Should he secure consistent minutes, Trafford could emerge as a leading candidate to succeed Pickford as England’s number one goalkeeper.

The right-back position remains unsettled. English manager faced challenges during the World Cup as Reece James—the nation’s top player in the role—has struggled with fitness issues. Other players like Jarell Quansah and Ezri Konsa seem more suited to central defense, while Djed Spence typically plays on the left for Tottenham. Lewis Miley showed promise at right back for Newcastle last season but is primarily a midfielder. James, who will be 28 by Euro 2028, will need to maintain form and fitness at Chelsea to hold his place. Meanwhile, Tino Livramento possesses the potential to become England’s primary right back but has availability concerns of his own.

On the left side of defense, Djed Spence impressed in the latter stages of the World Cup and may remain part of the squad, but his performance was viewed as somewhat fleeting. Nico O’Reilly, while having played in the tournament, has yet to convincingly establish himself at left back and may develop more as a midfielder with additional first-team experience at Manchester City. Lewis Hall, 21, who missed selection this summer, had shown strong form with Newcastle and could fill a left-back role in the future if he can improve his defensive capabilities alongside his already notable ball control and composure.

The centre-back area may see a significant overhaul. Only Marc Guehi is likely to remain in contention for a starting spot in 2028 after England’s defensive issues contributed to the team’s tactical retreat during the World Cup, especially after taking leads. Chelsea’s Levi Colwill and Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite, both in their early twenties and having endured injury-affected seasons, are in position to challenge Guehi as they mature, although their fitness remains a concern. Tuchel may explore alternative options to strengthen this key defensive zone.

In central midfield, Elliot Anderson is considered a secure option, but additional reinforcements are required to improve England’s control in possession. Declan Rice, a focal point for Arsenal, has yet to consistently translate his club form into international success. The recent tournament underscored England’s need to balance their style between high-intensity activity and calmer, more controlled play. Identifying capable midfielders who can provide this equilibrium will be crucial for the team’s future success on the European stage.