Trent Alexander-Arnold and Cole Palmer have been recalled to the England squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League matches against Spain, the Czech Republic, and Croatia. Alexander-Arnold’s selection marks his first international call-up in 15 months, following his recent transition to La Liga where he has started twice for Jose Mourinho’s Real Madrid.
Cole Palmer has also forced his way back into the setup after a formidable start to the 2026-27 domestic campaign with Chelsea. They are joined by several other players who missed the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including Liverpool forward Rio Ngumoha—who debuted against New Zealand in June—Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott, Newcastle United defender Lewis Hall, and Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite. Dominic Calvert-Lewin also returns after last appearing for the side during the March international window.
England’s Nations League journey begins at home against reigning world and European champions Spain on September 26. Following that opening clash, the team will travel to face the Czech Republic before meeting Croatia on October 3. A subsequent return fixture against the Czech Republic follows on October 6.
These selections follow a strong showing for Thomas Tuchel’s squad at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, where England achieved their best finish since 1966. Despite falling short of the title, the team progressed through the group stage with victories over Croatia and Panama and a draw against Ghana. After overcoming DR Congo, co-hosts Mexico, and Norway in extra time, they reached the semi-finals.
Though a late comeback from Argentina denied them a spot in the final, England secured a high-scoring 6-4 victory over France in the third-place play-off. Captain Harry Kane and midfielder Jude Bellingham finished that tournament with seven goals apiece, establishing a high benchmark for the upcoming Nations League cycle. The report also notes that they recorded their best-ever finish since their triumphant campaign in 1966, even though they couldn’t end their 60-year wait for a second title. The report also notes that they visit the Czech Republic, three days later. The report also notes that thomas Tuchel’s side commenced their campaign with a 4-2 win over 2018 finalists Croatia before drawing goalless with Ghana. The report also notes that they beat Panama 2-0 to qualify for the knockouts as group winners. The report also notes that a 2-1 victory over DR Congo was followed by a 3-2 victory at co-hosts Mexico before the Three Lions beat Norway 2-1 in extra time to reach the semis for the second time in three appearances.
