Saka and Chalobah: Tuchel wants the best

Bukayo Saka and Trevoh Chalobah believe Thomas Tuchel’s “winning mentality” can help England succeed this summer.

The head coach, who took charge of the Three Lions at the beginning of 2025, has made no secret of his desire to add a second star to the shirt in North America.

England head into their final group game against Panama on Saturday top of Group L as they look to seal first spot and a place in the knockout stage.

And Saka and Chalobah, who were speaking as the latest guests on Lions’ Den Connected by EE, were full of praise for Tuchel’s impact on the squad over the last 18 months.

Asked what their favourite thing about the former Chelsea boss is by host Andrew Mensah, Chalobah replied: “Winning mentality. He always wants to win, always wants the best.”

Saka added: “I’d say that also but mixed with composure. I think he’s got a good balance.”

Questioned on whether the calmness within the Three Lions’ camp comes from Tuchel, Saka said: “One hundred percent. Also, as players we can’t go with the flow of opinions and feelings of the fans back home because that’s normally going to be up and down.

“We have to be composed as well and focus on getting the job done.”

Chalobah received a late call-up to the squad following an unfortunate injury for Tino Livramento during training, and he is thrilled to be working with the head coach again.

The defender played under Tuchel at Chelsea and also won his only England cap during his time in charge, having made his debut in a friendly against Senegal last year.

Asked about his relationship with Tuchel, Chalobah admitted: “It’s very special. He’s the one that gave me my debut for Chelsea. I’m always going to be grateful for giving me the opportunity and the platform.

“He did the same for England also so we’ve got a very special relationship.”

Saka also reacted to winning his 50th England cap as a substitute in the 4-2 win over Croatia, becoming the fifth youngest to achieve the milestone for the Three Lions in the process.

“Feeling good, feeling happy,” he said. “It’s a massive honour to achieve that with this country and I feel blessed. I feel like I’ve got experience.”

Asked whether he views Saka as one of the squad's senior players despite him being just 24, Chalobah said: “Yeah, most definitely. I’m new to this, getting called up, and he’s obviously someone I can look up to.

“He’s been there, he’s played a lot of games.”

You can watch all episodes of Lions' Den Connected by EE here.