Wayne Rooney issues stark warning on Jack Grealish’s World Cup hopes
Wayne Rooney has given a stark verdict on Jack Grealish’s diminishing hopes of making England’s World Cup squad, suggesting the winger should “book his holiday” rather than expect a late recall from Thomas Tuchel, reports BritPanorama.
Grealish was once again left out of the England manager’s plans for Thursday night’s 2-0 victory over Serbia at Wembley, a win that preserved England’s flawless qualifying campaign.
Even with Anthony Gordon’s withdrawal through injury, Tuchel opted not to include the in-form Everton loanee, who has not worn the Three Lions shirt since Tuchel replaced Gareth Southgate. The 30-year-old has impressed during his loan spell at Everton, registering five Premier League goal contributions and showing glimpses of the creativity and drive that made him a regular under Southgate.
However, this upturn in form has not altered Tuchel’s stance, and with only one international window remaining before next summer’s squad is announced, Grealish appears to be running out of time.
Rooney, appearing on The Wayne Rooney Show, was unequivocal in his assessment. “Jack Grealish may as well book his holiday for the summer now because he’s not getting in the squad,” he said. “You think Andy Gordon dropped out and he still doesn’t get called into it, so I think Thomas Tuchel is quite set.”
In his comments, Rooney also criticized the decision to start Harry Kane against Serbia, suggesting the match offered a chance to experiment rather than lean on the captain now that qualification is already secured. “I think this international break was the perfect opportunity just to say to Harry Kane, ‘Go and have a week’s holiday’. He doesn’t need to be there,” Rooney added.
Kane was eventually substituted in the second half, with Phil Foden moving centrally — a tactical shift that quickly paid dividends. The Manchester City star seemed comfortable in the false nine role and assisted Eberechi Eze’s late goal, presenting Tuchel with another option as he heads towards 2025.
After the match, Tuchel indicated his openness to deploying Foden in the No 9 position if circumstances require. He noted, “If Phil stays in his shape and form, I have no problem [playing him as a No 9].” He further mentioned other options like Ollie Watkins and Danny Welbeck, hinting at various tactical considerations as he evaluates the squad heading into the tournament.
For Grealish, the outlook remains bleak. Despite amassing 39 caps, he has not featured for the national team since October 2024, when interim coach Lee Carsley gave him a brief reprieve after Southgate omitted him from the Euro 2024 squad. With Tuchel showing no inclination to revisit that decision, the former Aston Villa star now looks to be outside the picture as England approaches the World Cup in North America next year.
Unless Tuchel changes course during the final international break before the tournament, Rooney’s assessment of Grealish’s predicament may indeed prove accurate. Football, like life, can be unpredictable, and while hopes may be pinned on a turnaround, the reality often reflects harsh truths for even the most gifted players.
