Tuchel confirms Noni Madueke out for ‘few days’

England manager Thomas Tuchel has confirmed that Arsenal winger Noni Madueke will be sidelined for a few days following a knee injury sustained during international duty.

Speaking ahead of England’s final pre-World Cup friendly against Japan, Tuchel provided a cautious but somewhat relieved update on the 24-year-old’s condition, after initial fears suggested a much longer layoff for the inform attacker.

The injury occurred during the first half of England’s 1-1 draw against Uruguay at Wembley Stadium on Friday.

Madueke was forced off in the 38th minute following a robust challenge from Uruguayan defender Rodrigo Aguirre.

Concerns intensified when the winger was later seen leaving the stadium with his left leg stabilized in a protective brace. However, subsequent medical imaging has offered a glimmer of hope for both club and country.

“Noni Madueke was not able to play, he will be out for some days,” Tuchel stated during his Sunday press conference.

The German coach admitted he was “worried” in the immediate aftermath of the challenge but noted that scans were “slightly better than initially feared.”

Despite the improved outlook, Madueke has withdrawn from the Three Lions squad to return to Arsenal’s Sobha Realty Training Centre for specialized rehabilitation.

The timing of the injury presents a significant headache for Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta. The Gunners are entering a defining stretch of their season, beginning with an FA Cup quarter-final against Southampton this Saturday, followed by a high-stakes Champions League quarter-final first leg against Sporting Lisbon.

Madueke is part of a growing injury list at the Emirates, joining teammates Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka, who also withdrew from the England camp this week.

While Tuchel expressed frustration at losing such a dynamic attacking option, he emphasized that player safety remained the priority.

“They were desperate to play, but it made no sense to take the risk,” Tuchel added regarding his decision to release the Arsenal trio.