Following England's 2-0 World Cup victory over Panama, which secured their top position in the group, several pundits on American television sharply criticized the team's performance. Former Premier League forward Troy Deeney specifically called out wingers Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford, and Noni Madueke, labeling their play as 'ignorant and arrogant.'
Deeney pointed to the players' repeated loss of possession as evidence for his critique. "Have a look at the possession they have lost: 14 for Saka, 20 for Rashford and seven for Madueke,” Deeney stated on CBS. He elaborated that while such risks might be acceptable with incisive passing or creative flicks, the execution was wasteful. Deeney cited Madueke's tendency to immediately kick the ball out for a goal kick after a dribble and Rashford's repeated attempts to shoot when the option was not on, deeming these actions "so wasteful."
Deeney further argued that England's wide players became less effective in the second half as they attempted to take on opponents, describing their approach as stemming from arrogance and ignorance. "They felt 'I’m quicker than that person, I am just going to run past them, I play for whatever club, I am better than that person'," he said. He contrasted this with the opposing players' motivation, stating that national team players view such matches as crucial opportunities to showcase their abilities.
American pundit Mike Grella echoed Deeney's sentiments, questioning the team's overall quality. "This guy is worth £100m, this guy is worth £200m, you guys have got all these world beaters, maybe it is Tuchel, maybe it is Rashford, maybe it is this guy - 'Do you guys ever think you're not that good at football?'" Grella asked. He criticized England's predictability, slow pace, and lack of "street smarts," noting that they often cede possession and allow opponents to dictate play.
Former West Ham and Aston Villa midfielder Nigel Reo-Coker, also part of the CBS punditry panel, agreed with the assessment, highlighting the predictability of Rashford and Saka cutting inside onto their preferred feet. He stressed the need for higher standards, stating that "top class players don't give the ball away."
Despite the criticism, England topped their World Cup group with an unbeaten record, including a 4-2 win over Croatia, a draw against Ghana, and the victory over Panama. The team is set to face DR Congo in the last-32 on July 1 in Atlanta. A victory would advance them to a tie against either Mexico or Ecuador.