England manager Thomas Tuchel is grappling with yet another defensive dilemma at right-back after Jarrell Quansah became the latest player to suffer an injury during the 2026 World Cup. The Bayer Leverkusen defender was forced off the pitch during England’s 2-0 triumph over Panama, leaving the coaching staff anxious about his availability for the upcoming knockout stages.

Quansah’s setback adds to England’s growing list of defensive concerns ahead of the Round of 32. The former Liverpool player had been drafted into the starting lineup to provide cover at right-back against Panama but was seen limping off during the second half of the final Group L match at the MetLife Stadium. The young defender appeared to be in considerable discomfort as he exited, raising fears that Tuchel’s options on the right flank are running dangerously low.

Quansah’s injury marks the third blow in the same position since England’s arrival in the United States. He joins Newcastle United’s Tino Livramento and Chelsea captain Reece James on the injury list, leaving Tuchel facing a tactical headache before the clash with DR Congo. Despite the limp, Quansah was later seen walking unaided as he boarded the team bus, offering a glimmer of hope for a swift recovery.

After the 2-0 win, Tuchel provided an update: “It’s a typical ankle twist, and he’s in some pain. He mentioned he’s had it before, so it’s just a matter of days. His leg is elevated and iced.” When asked about the ongoing injury issues at full-back, the German manager admitted, “Of course, it’s a concern. We’ve had another injury in that position. It will be a close call for Reece James and for Jarrell Quansah, but it’s our responsibility to find solutions—and we will.”

The injury is particularly disappointing for the coaching team, as Quansah had been repositioned to right-back specifically to strengthen that area. Tuchel had previously explained that Trevoh Chalobah’s inclusion in the squad was intended to free Quansah for that role—a strategy now thrown into disarray as the tournament enters its decisive stages.

Meanwhile, Reece James’ fitness remains another major concern. The Chelsea skipper continues his individual rehabilitation programme in Kansas City, away from the main squad. Tuchel has defended his decision to include James in England’s 26-man World Cup squad despite the player’s history of injury setbacks with his club.

“No one could have predicted this,” Tuchel said when asked about his decision to take a chance on James’ fitness. “Reece was feeling good and in strong shape, so it’s unfortunate. But Ezri Konsa has stepped in at a high level for us, so we’re managing fine.” The manager remains hopeful that James will feature later in the tournament, depending on England’s progress through the first knockout stage in Atlanta.

With both Quansah and James sidelined, Djed Spence is now the leading candidate to occupy the right-back position going forward. The Tottenham Hotspur defender has already played in all three group matches, demonstrating the adaptability Tuchel values in his squad. However, given Spence’s ability to play on the left as well, Tuchel may opt for tactical reshuffles involving Chalobah or Konsa.

Despite the growing list of injuries—which also included a minor scare for midfielder Declan Rice earlier in the week—the atmosphere within the England camp remains positive. After finishing top of Group L, the Three Lions are set to face DR Congo next. Tuchel’s ability to reorganise his defence under pressure will now be a true measure of England’s strength as they continue their quest for World Cup glory on American soil.