Harry Maguire has expressed his devastation after being informed that he will not be part of England's World Cup squad this summer, with manager Thomas Tuchel set to announce a surprising 26-man group on Friday. Phil Foden and Cole Palmer are also widely reported to be omitted from the tournament in North America.
Tuchel's Squad Selection Causes Stir
The German coach made calls to several players on Thursday to inform them of their fate, leading to a steady stream of leaks from late afternoon into the evening. This marks a departure from the more controlled announcements under former manager Sir Gareth Southgate.
Maguire, who earned his first call-up under Tuchel in March and featured in both friendlies, took to social media to voice his disappointment. 'I was confident I could have played a major part this summer for my country after the season I’ve had,' the experienced defender posted on Instagram. 'I’ve been left shocked and gutted by the decision.'
The Manchester United centre-back added: 'I’ve loved nothing more than putting that shirt on and representing my country over the years. I wish the players all the best this summer.'
Foden and Palmer Among Those Left Out
Foden and Palmer are reportedly missing out due to underwhelming seasons and intense competition in attacking midfield. In-form Morgan Gibbs-White is also said to be omitted. Meanwhile, Manchester United teammate Luke Shaw has been overlooked by Tuchel since he took charge.
There is better news for Kobbie Mainoo, who is expected to be included alongside Noni Madueke, Ollie Watkins, and surprisingly, Ivan Toney. Watkins has been in outstanding form for Aston Villa since missing March's camp, where Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Dominic Solanke were trialled as Harry Kane's backups. Toney, now at Al-Ahli, has made only one late substitute appearance under Tuchel and has not been selected since last June.
Defensive Decisions and Injury Concerns
Tuchel's decisions have sparked surprise and intrigue, but questions remain over certain areas. Trent Alexander-Arnold has been a high-profile absentee and could benefit from Ben White's season-ending injury, though Tuchel indicated in November that the Real Madrid right-back was behind Jarell Quansah.
The England boss has sought reassurance over Tino Livramento's fitness after a month-long thigh injury, while Newcastle teammate Lewis Hall is reportedly not in the squad. Tuchel has also monitored Levi Colwill's progress following his return from anterior cruciate ligament surgery in August, but it may be too soon for the Chelsea defender.
John Stones will hope for positive news as Tuchel acknowledged his 'lot of credit in the bank' despite limited club game time. Dan Burn looks set to be included along with Marc Guehi and Ezri Konsa, while Trevoh Chalobah has been vying for a spot.
Squad Finalisation and Rules
The Football Association must submit the 26-man squad to FIFA by May 31, but outfield players can be replaced for medical reasons up to 24 hours before England's Group L opener against Croatia on June 17. Only goalkeepers can be changed after that point. Brighton's Jason Steele is expected to travel as a training goalkeeper, a role filled by Tom Heaton at Euro 2024.
