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Tuchel defends Ivan Toney England call-up ahead of 2025 qualifiers

Adem Ozcan Last updated: May 23, 2025, 4:28 pm
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Image: IMAGO / Naushad

Ivan Toney England call-up 2025 headlines Thomas Tuchel’s squad announcement ahead of World Cup qualifiers in June, as the national team boss defends his decision to select the Al-Ahli striker despite scrutiny over his move to Saudi Arabia.

Toney, 29, was a surprise name in the 26-man England squad revealed this week, marking his first international return since helping the Three Lions to the Euro 2024 final. After moving from Brentford to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli last summer, the striker has scored 29 goals in 43 games across all competitions, guiding his team to the AFC Champions League Elite title.

England face Andorra in a key Group K clash, followed by a home friendly against Senegal at the City Ground, and Toney is back in contention.

Tuchel: “Toney Deserves to Be Here”

“Ivan deserves to be with us, I think,” said Tuchel. “He’s won a major title, scored over 20 goals and had a huge contribution for Al-Ahli.”

Tuchel admitted he had planned to visit Toney in Saudi Arabia but didn’t manage to fit the trip into his schedule. Instead, he opted to bring the player into camp directly to assess him first-hand.

Toney’s Stats This Season at Al-Ahli

Stat Value
Appearances (All Comps) 43
Goals 29
Titles Won AFC Champions League Elite

Chelsea’s Chalobah Gets First England Call

While Toney headlines the list, Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah has received his maiden senior call-up, filling the gap left by injured centre-backs John Stones and Marc Guehi.

Ivan Toney England Call-Up 2025

  • 29 Goals in 43 Games: Toney fires Al-Ahli to Asian Champions League glory.
  • Tuchel Backs Selection: England boss praises striker’s influence and mentality.
  • Chalobah Debuts: Chelsea defender replaces injured Guehi and Stones.
  • Group K Qualifiers Loom: England face Andorra and Senegal in June fixtures.

What’s Next?

All eyes will be on England’s performance against Andorra and Senegal as Tuchel shapes his squad for the 2026 World Cup journey. Toney will look to prove that form in Saudi Arabia can still warrant a key role on the international stage.

Do you agree with Ivan Toney’s recall to the England squad? Share your thoughts below and follow us for live updates from the upcoming qualifiers.

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