World Cup 2026: Roy Keane raises alarm over Bukayo Saka fitness ahead of Croatia opener

Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane has cast doubt over whether Bukayo Saka should start for England this summer, amid growing caution around the winger’s fitness.

A persistent Achilles tendon issue has forced England boss Thomas Tuchel to carefully regulate Saka’s minutes in the build-up to the tournament, as the national team seeks to avoid aggravating the problem at a critical stage.

Saka, who has registered 14 goals in 48 appearances for the Three Lions, remains under close observation, with concerns that his influence could be reduced during the competition if the injury continues to limit him.

Keane questions Saka’s sharpness

Speaking on ITV, Keane suggested that Saka may not be ready to start England’s opening World Cup fixture against Croatia next week, pointing to a dip in his attacking edge.

“I don’t know. The only thing I’ve seen from Saka tonight, the few opportunities he’s got to go past someone, to me he’s lost that spark a bit.

“The timing isn’t great if he’s kind of carrying an injury, maybe that might cost him a little bit.

“I do think he’s lost his spark. There’s a couple chances he had there on the edge of the box to go past people and he didn’t do that, and that might be a little worry for the manager.”

Croatia test looms large

Keane also underlined the challenge awaiting England in their tournament opener against Croatia national football team, warning that preparation alone will not guarantee success.

“Everything is going along lovely, but that doesn’t guarantee you a big performance against Croatia, because those boys are warriors.”

Selection dilemma for Tuchel

Saka has featured in every major tournament match England have played since the Euro 2020 semi-final against Denmark, underlining his importance to the squad.

However, if Thomas Tuchel decides to limit or omit him from the starting XI, it would represent a significant blow to England’s attacking plans.

In that scenario, attention could shift to Noni Madueke, a North London teammate expected to carry added responsibility on the right flank if Saka is not risked from the start.