Last updated: 5 October 2026, 16:40 BST
Thomas Tuchel has eased concerns over Ezri Konsa’s fitness after the Arsenal defender withdrew from England’s squad following a knock against Croatia.
Konsa arrived at camp carrying discomfort and completed 90 minutes against Spain before missing the win over Czechia. He had also trained separately from his England teammates during the international window.
The defender subsequently received clearance to face Croatia, but another blow to his thigh prompted England to send him back to Arsenal for treatment.
Speaking at Monday’s press conference, as reported by the Standard, Tuchel explained that Konsa had completed training before the game.
“Unfortunately, he got another hit on the quad and that caused a light trauma and we decided not to let him play through this pain, so he left camp to get treatment for both his issues now,” he said.
“I think nothing major but not worth the risk taking.”
England confirmed Konsa’s withdrawal alongside Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott on Monday. Both will miss Tuesday’s Nations League meeting with Czechia at Wembley.
Tuchel’s assessment offers encouragement for Mikel Arteta, although it does not confirm whether Konsa will be available when Arsenal resume their Premier League campaign against Leeds on Saturday.
The reported training returns of Ben White, Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie could strengthen Arteta’s defensive options, but their readiness to start also requires confirmation.
Arsenal face Leeds at 12.30pm before hosting Lille in the Champions League on Tuesday, making the outcome of Konsa’s assessment relevant to both fixtures.
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