The report says Declan Rice is expected to be rested, rather than being confirmed as unavailable. His absence would remove England’s most established option for protecting the defence, carrying the ball through midfield and controlling transitions.
That could create a significant opportunity for Alex Scott, the only uncapped outfield player in Tuchel’s squad, while James Garner is another reported alternative.
Spain’s status as world champions makes this more than a routine group opener. England will need to resist being stretched without the security Rice normally provides, particularly when Spain establish possession in advanced areas.
The report also points to changes in Spain’s selection, with several younger or less-established names included. That may give England an opportunity to test a developing squad, but the visitors retain the technical quality and tournament experience to punish loose positioning.
For Tuchel, the key question is whether England can combine controlled pressing with enough patience to build attacks against a side comfortable dictating the rhythm.
The schedule leaves little recovery time: England are due to travel to Prague to face Czechia four days after Wembley, while Spain are set to visit Croatia next. That makes squad management central from the opening match.
A strong result would give England early momentum in the race for the semi-finals; a poor one would increase pressure before the trip east. The midfield selection against Spain is therefore the first storyline to watch, with Scott’s potential debut at its centre.