Saka says England still bear World Cup scar as they look ahead

Bukayo Saka, who started three of England's eight World Cup matches, says the Three Lions are still living with the "scar" of their semi‑final defeat to Argentina. He told BBC Radio 5 Live that the team felt united and confident before the late Argentine goals overturned their chance of reaching a final for the first time since 1966.

World Cup heartbreak and bronze triumph

Thomas Tuchel's side were stunned by a 2‑1 loss in stoppage time, ending their historic run. Yet a thrilling 6‑4 victory over France in the bronze‑medal match gave England their best World Cup finish in six decades.

Saka reflected on the lingering pain, saying, "Obviously, there is still a scar on us when you believed and everyone was so united and so confident we could do it, not just us, but the whole country we felt." He added that a scar "decides to heal when it heals itself".

Looking forward to the new international season

England host world champions Spain at Wembley on Saturday in the first of four Nations League games, a reminder of what might have been. Saka said the squad is trying to "draw a line under" the World Cup and focus on the upcoming group fixtures.

Thomas Tuchel held a squad meeting on Tuesday to shift attention towards the home Euros in 2028, urging players to move on from the disappointment.

During the tournament Saka managed an Achilles injury and was an unused substitute in the semi‑final, with Tuchel opting for defensive changes. He returned for the third‑place play‑off, scoring a hat‑trick in the win over France.

Speaking to, Saka admitted it was "tough" to miss the Argentina game but stressed the need to trust the manager’s decisions and look ahead.

He also praised Arsenal teammate Max Dowman, 16, saying his talent is "insane" and that a senior England call‑up is only a matter of time. England Under‑21 manager Lee Carsley agreed, describing Dowman's talent as "amazing" and suggesting the youngster stay with the under‑19s for now to consolidate his development.