England head coach Thomas Tuchel has publicly criticised world football’s governing body FIFA regarding the eligibility process surrounding forward Folarin Balogun, according to the BBC.

According to the BBC, Balogun, who has previously represented the United States national team, is seeking to switch his international allegiance to England ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Any such change of association eligibility falls under the jurisdiction of FIFA and is subject to a formal application and review process.

Coach Tuchel is reported by the BBC to have expressed frustration with the manner in which FIFA is handling the request, questioning both the duration and the transparency of the procedure. He is said to have raised the broader question of where the boundaries of such eligibility policies ultimately lie.

The matter raises wider questions regarding FIFA’s regulatory framework governing the international transfer of eligibility for players who qualify to represent more than one nation. It has not been confirmed at the time of publication whether or when Balogun will be formally cleared to represent England by the relevant authorities.

FIFA was not available for comment at the time of publication. A representative for Folarin Balogun had also not issued an official statement, according to the BBC.