Coach Thomas Tuchel won the Champions League at Chelsea with a 3-man defense. However, the four-man defense seems to be the ideal arrangement for the German coach to lead the "Three Lions" towards the goal of winning the World Cup. His first match as England captain was against Albania in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in Europe.
All evidence shows that Tuchel is likely to choose a back four formation in the match against Albania at Wembley. That will surprise many fans because his hobby during his time at Stamford Bridge was a system that combined 3 centre-backs and 2 full-backs. Tuchel has chosen that system in 87% of his games at the Blues.
However, if we look at England's squad when all the players are healthy and ready, there is a good reason to think that the 4-man defense will best suit their strength.
In theory, to play with 3 or 5 defenders, that team needs 3 world-class central defenders. And there is also a need for additional backup options for absentees or poor form.
More importantly, some defenders will need to attack on both wings if they want to effectively deploy the 3-4-2-1 or 3-5-1 formation. Even now, despite Reece James' return, Tuchel still does not have typical attacking full-backs, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Luke Shaw. In fact, the only left-back recognized in the current England squad is Myles Lewis-Skelly (18 years old).
Simply put, Tuchel does not have enough resources to play with a 3-back formation, even if he wants. Moreover, it is impossible to create a squad with full-backs and midfielders, unless they accept the sacrifice of a "number 10".
If Tuchel decides to use a full-back, he will need to remove one of the two positions that are considered the strongest of the "Three Lions". With world-class talents such as Jude Bellingham, Cole Palmer and Phil Foden in hand, who will Tuchel eliminate?
Up front, think about names like Bukayo Saka (fortified), Marcus Rashford, Foden, Anthony Gordon, Jarrod Bowen, Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke (fortified). Few teams can compare with such impressive depth. Therefore, if Tuchel chooses a full-back, he will have to leave a series of the most talented players in the England team on the bench.
Of course, Tuchel will consider using the 3-center-back option when specific situations arise. But it would be a smart move for Tuchel to make the four-man defence as his main system.
