Bukayo Saka admits taking fitness 'gamble' for England's World Cup opener

Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka has opened up about his physical condition as England prepares for their 2026 World Cup opener against Croatia. The 24-year-old admits he is continuing to take a calculated risk on his fitness, despite a nagging Achilles issue that has persisted since the Carabao Cup final against Manchester City in March.

This injury has significantly limited his playing time, with Saka completing a full 90-minute match only once in the last three months. While England manager Thomas Tuchel has publicly stated that the forward's condition is being monitored with extreme caution, the player remains committed to participating.

I don’t want to say anything that goes against the manager. But what I would say is that between Mikel Arteta and Arsenal’s medical team and England’s medical team, since March they have managed me amazingly. I am feeling better than I have felt for the last few months. I am ready to go. Bukayo Saka

Saka acknowledged the pressure on players to deliver regardless of their physical state. "As players it’s the biggest gamble, especially if you’re not feeling your sharpest. You have the choice whether you don’t play or you put yourself out there knowing people are going to judge you the same," he explained. Despite the uncertainty, the winger believes his recent domestic title success has bolstered his confidence as England eyes a strong start in Dallas.