While Rice and Saka’s departures are precautionary, there is greater alarm surrounding Noni Madueke after he landed heavily on his left knee during the stalemate with Uruguay. The 24-year-old was forced off in the 37th minute following a robust challenge from Rodrigo Aguirre and was later spotted leaving the stadium with his leg in a protective brace. It represents a significant blow for a player who was looking to cement his place in Tuchel's plans.
“I'm worried, of course, because I think he was a difference-maker,” Tuchel said of the Arsenal winger. “He started well, he was full of energy, he was ready to go. Very sad and upset and hopefully it's not a big injury. And I think against a team like Uruguay, who rely on one-against-ones, to isolate them, he makes the spaces open up and he could have been a key player for us, which he is.”