Thomas Tuchel has begun delivering the difficult news to players as he finalises his 26-man England World Cup squad, with Phil Foden, Cole Palmer and Trent Alexander-Arnold among the high-profile casualties. The England boss made his first phone calls 48 hours before the official squad announcement, prioritising the tough conversations ahead of Friday's unveiling.
Manchester City duo Foden and Palmer are considered the most surprising omissions, alongside Liverpool's Alexander-Arnold. Harry Maguire has also been told he will not be included, a decision the Manchester United defender described as leaving him 'shocked and gutted'. Maguire said: 'I was confident I could have played a major part this summer for my country after the season I’ve had. I’ve been left shocked and gutted by the decision. I wish the players all the best.'
The omissions extend to Fikayo Tomori and Luke Shaw, while Levil Colwill is also expected to miss out. Maguire's absence effectively ends his international career at 34, having been told he was sixth choice behind John Stones, Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi, Trevoh Chalobah and Dan Burn. Stones, however, has received assurances he will be selected despite limited club minutes.
Ivan Toney has emerged as a potential surprise inclusion after Tuchel reconsidered his striker options. The Brentford forward's last England appearance came as a late substitute against Senegal a year ago. Ollie Watkins, left out in March but in sensational form since, is expected to make the cut alongside Harry Kane. Jordan Henderson also looks set to feature, bringing valuable experience.
Tuchel faces a right-back dilemma with Ben White likely to have backed up Reece James, but now the manager waits on Tino Livramento's fitness. Jarell Quansah's versatility makes him a strong candidate. The squad will gather on June 1 for a Florida camp before heading to Kansas City to prepare for Group fixtures against Croatia, Ghana and Panama.
