Max Dowman Gets 2026 World Cup Update from England Coach

Despite that breakthrough, Dowman was not included in Tuchel’s 35-man squad for the March friendlies, though his name has remained part of the broader conversation.

Tuchel, however, addressed the teenager's situation when asked about his chances of making the World Cup roster, sending him a promising message a bit over two months from the final squad reveal.

“He put himself in the spotlight with his amazing goal against Everton,” Tuchel said. “I think he is, at the moment—compete. Obviously, he's a fantastic talent, an outstanding talent, with his age—there cannot be a doubt about it.”

Tuchel confirmed that Dowman remains under consideration as the final squad decision is due May 30.

“Why wouldn’t I keep the door open? I keep the door open for anyone with any age. I learned this as a coach, not to take the last decision now,” Tuchel said. “It’s very young, yes, and there are arguments that it’s too young, but why be open to all these arguments now?

At the same time, Tuchel pointed to Dowman’s current role at Arsenal as a factor in the evaluation process, and as the main reason the youngster might be left out of the 2026 World Cup.

“Let him fight for his minutes, Tuchel said. “At the moment, he’s not a regular starter. You could argue you should maybe be a starter at your club to be considered.

“Why wouldn’t I rule it out? Of course, it’s impressive what he’s doing. It’s impressive the feedback I get from players and people who know him, and we have a look at it, and we make the last decision when we build the squad in May.”

England are scheduled to open their World Cup campaign against Croatia on June 17.