Mentioning leaving out Real Madrid defender Trent Alexander-Arnold, Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins and Reds left-back Shaw, Tuchel added: "These tough decisions come with the job."
The squad is being split for the two friendlies, with 11 players only linking up late for the second game, against Japan.
These are ex-United keeper Dean Henderson, Dan Burn, Marc Guehi, Ezri Konsa, Nico O'Reilly, Elliot Anderson, Declan Rice, Morgan Rogers, Anthony Gordon, Harry Kane and Bukayo Saka.
"All of these guys have played 3,500+ minutes," said Tuchel. "They have a bit of credit and we think we have to give them a break, mentally and physically, so we will benefit from it."