Just before the key development, Eberechi Eze was part of Thomas Tuchel’s 35-man squad for England, but he missed the Carabao Cup final due to a lower leg injury. On March 22, 2026, it was confirmed that Eze has been ruled out for England’s friendlies against Uruguay and Japan due to a calf injury.
Following this announcement, Harvey Barnes has been called up to replace Eze in the England squad. Barnes, who is 28 years old, has had an impressive season with Newcastle United, scoring 14 goals in all competitions and missing only one game in the Premier League.
England is set to face Uruguay on March 27 and Japan on March 31. This sequence of events is significant as it not only impacts Eze’s participation but also provides Barnes with an opportunity to represent his country again, having last been in an England squad in October 2020, where he earned his only cap.
Mikel Arteta, Eze’s manager at Arsenal, stated, “No. He’s out. We have to do another scan in six or seven days and wait and see the results. It is his calf.” This indicates that Eze’s injury is being closely monitored, and further assessments will be made shortly.
Barnes’s performance this season has been noteworthy, with 50 games played and 12 Champions League fixtures under his belt. His consistent form in the Premier League, where he has not missed any games, makes him a valuable addition to the squad.
Details remain unconfirmed regarding the severity of Eze’s injury, but the upcoming scan will provide more clarity on his condition. The situation is being watched closely by fans and analysts alike, as Eze’s contributions have been significant for both club and country.
As England prepares for these international fixtures, the absence of Eze and the inclusion of Barnes will be pivotal in shaping the team’s strategy and performance on the field.
With the World Cup approaching, the dynamics of the squad are crucial, and Barnes’s call-up may influence his future prospects with the national team.
Overall, this development highlights the ongoing challenges of player fitness and the importance of depth in the national squad as they gear up for competitive matches.
