England vs Albania: Team News, Predicted Lineup and Key Updates
As England wrap up their 2025 campaign, Thomas Tuchel’s side travel to Tirana to take on Albania in what promises to be a low-pressure yet intriguing international fixture. With qualification for next year’s tournament already secured, the England manager has the freedom to experiment and manage workloads during a congested schedule.
England Squad Rotation and Selection Plans
England’s 2-0 win over Serbia on Thursday ensured they top Group K, while Albania confirmed second place after defeating Andorra. Tuchel’s squad face a tight turnaround between matches, and with fitness management high on the agenda, rotation is expected. “We have to be sensible with the recovery period,” Tuchel noted earlier in the week, hinting at potential changes.
Jude Bellingham is among those pushing for a recall and is expected to start in the No10 role after coming off the bench against Serbia. The Real Madrid midfielder’s influence in advanced areas could provide a creative spark as England look to maintain momentum heading into 2026.
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Meanwhile, Adam Wharton continues to impress in training and could be handed a starting role alongside Declan Rice in midfield. Tuchel has also hinted that fringe players such as Dan Burn and Jarrod Bowen may be involved, with the manager keen to test depth across key positions.
Injury Updates Ahead of Tirana Clash
England will be without Ezri Konsa, who did not travel due to calf tightness, while Marc Guehi remains sidelined with a bruised foot. Both Nick Pope and Anthony Gordon withdrew earlier in the week through injury. These absences have opened the door for others to step in and make their case for future selection.
Despite suggestions that Harry Kane could be rested, the captain confirmed in Saturday’s media briefing that he is ready to lead the line again. “I feel good and I’m always proud to represent England,” Kane said, confirming his intent to start.
Tactical Options for Tuchel
Tuchel has made it clear he values flexibility in his lineup. England are expected to line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation, with Jordan Pickford in goal, supported by a back four that could include Reece James, Burn, John Stones and Djed Spence. Wharton and Rice may form the double pivot, while Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford are likely to start out wide. Bellingham will operate behind Kane, offering England both drive and creativity.
The fixture also presents an opportunity for Dean Henderson to gain minutes should Tuchel wish to test alternatives to Pickford. With England’s qualification secure, the emphasis is on experimentation and maintaining sharpness before competitive football resumes next year.
Match Details
Date and Time: Sunday, November 16, 2025, 5pm GMTVenue: Arena Kombëtare, TiranaTV Channel: ITV
England Predicted XI (4-2-3-1): Pickford; James, Burn, Stones, Spence; Wharton, Rice; Saka, Bellingham, Rashford; KaneInjured: Konsa, Guehi, Gordon, Pope
Tuchel’s approach in Albania will be measured but forward-looking, focusing on rhythm and readiness more than results. For England, it’s another chance to refine combinations and end 2025 on a composed note.
