Four Players Exit England Camp Ahead of World Cup Opener Against Croatia

England’s final preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026 have entered a decisive phase following the departure of four players from the Three Lions training camp in Florida.

Ethan Nwaneri, Alex Scott, Josh King and Rio Ngumoha have all left the camp after contributing to manager Thomas Tuchel’s pre-tournament preparations.

The quartet had been invited to train with the senior national team but were not included in England’s final World Cup squad submitted to FIFA.

With the deadline for player replacements now passed, the players have formally concluded their involvement with the camp.

England confirmed the development through an official statement on its social media platforms.

“An important part of our preparations so far. Thanks to Alex Scott, Ethan Nwaneri, Rio Ngumoha and Josh King who depart at the conclusion of our camp in Florida,” the statement read.

The four players were regarded as valuable additions to Tuchel’s preparations, providing depth and competitive intensity during training sessions as England fine-tuned tactical plans ahead of their opening Group fixture against Croatia next Wednesday.

Their inclusion in the training camp also provided the young talents with an opportunity to gain experience within the senior national team environment while working alongside some of England’s established internationals.

Tuchel and his coaching staff are now expected to focus exclusively on the official squad as attention shifts towards England’s quest to win a first World Cup title since 1966.

England enter the tournament among the favourites, possessing one of the strongest squads in the competition and carrying significant expectations from supporters eager to see the team finally end decades of near misses on the international stage.

The Three Lions will begin their campaign against Croatia before facing further group-stage assignments that could shape their path through the tournament.

For Nwaneri, Scott, King and Ngumoha, their departure marks the end of a valuable learning experience that could prove beneficial for future senior international opportunities.