Despite pressure from clubs participating in next month’s Club World Cup, Tuchel has stuck to his guns.
The German, hired on a remit to win the 2026 World Cup, stressed before his first match in charge that he only has a total of 60 days and 24 sessions with his squad before the tournament begins.
It was a clear message that the former Chelsea boss would not cave into pleas from clubs to rest or omit players.
Five Chelsea players – Madueke, Palmer, Colwill, Chalobah and James – have been selected and could play against Senegal on 10 June before Chelsea’s first Club World Cup game in the United States on 16 June.
Asked about his players being called up before the squad announcement, Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca said there is a lack of care for players’ welfare.
“It is not normal, it is not correct,” said Maresca.
“I know people say they have money but it is not about money, it is about the health of the players. I don’t think people pay attention to that.”
Kane, 31, was always going to be selected given his role as captain, while Gallagher has had a good season in Spain.
But the selection of Bellingham could prove more controversial.
The midfielder has postponed surgery on his shoulder until after the Club World Cup, a decision that will see him miss at least the first six weeks of the 2025-26 season.
The former Birmingham City midfielder has made 52 appearances for Real Madrid this season and could play up to an extra seven matches at the Club World Cup should the La Liga side reach the final.
