Ivan Toney has made a dramatic return to the England national team, earning his first call-up since his high-profile move to Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli. The 29-year-old striker, formerly of Brentford, has been named in Thomas Tuchel’s latest squad for England’s upcoming matches against Andorra and Senegal.
Toney’s inclusion marks a significant milestone in his career, as he has not featured for the Three Lions since the Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain. His exceptional form in the Saudi Pro League, where he netted an astonishing 28 goals in 42 appearances for Al-Ahli, has reignited interest in his international prospects and forced Tuchel to rethink his attacking options.
England will face Andorra in a critical World Cup qualifier on June 7, followed by a high-profile friendly clash against Senegal at Nottingham Forest’s City Ground on June 10. These matches are expected to serve as key preparations for the 2026 World Cup campaign.
Toney’s return isn’t the only headline-grabber in Tuchel’s 26-man squad. Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham has also been selected despite needing shoulder surgery. The 21-year-old, who has been playing through discomfort since 2023, is scheduled to undergo a procedure after the Club World Cup but will feature for England before the operation.
Tuchel has opted for experience and emerging talent, selecting several stars who will also be involved in the Club World Cup, including England captain Harry Kane, Chelsea sensation Cole Palmer, and Atletico Madrid’s Conor Gallagher.
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The call-up of Toney signals a bold move from Tuchel, who left the striker out of the squad in March but now sees him as a pivotal piece of England’s attacking puzzle. Toney’s relentless scoring in Saudi Arabia has silenced critics and made it nearly impossible to ignore his form.
His selection also reflects the growing influence of the Saudi Pro League on the global stage, with top European managers now closely monitoring performances from the Middle East.
Toney, who left Brentford last summer in a deal reportedly worth over £50 million, is expected to bring physicality, precision, and clinical finishing to England’s frontline as they aim for redemption on the world stage.
The return of one of England’s most prolific goal scorers, combined with a dynamic squad blending youth and experience, sets the stage for an explosive summer of international football.
