Thomas Tuchel's first World Cup squad selection has raised eyebrows, with several high-profile names omitted from the 26-man list. Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, and Trent Alexander-Arnold are among the notable absentees as England prepare for friendlies against New Zealand and Costa Rica.
Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw, and Adam Wharton also missed the cut, while Ollie Watkins and Ivan Toney earned surprise recalls. The squad will now look to impress in pre-tournament fixtures before heading to the United States.
Among the absentees, Aaron Ramsdale's decline since losing his Arsenal place to David Raya has cost him a spot. John Stones' lack of game time and a social media outburst may have ended his England career, while Ben Chilwell's serious knee injury ruled him out.
Fikayo Tomori, despite a strong season at AC Milan, was overlooked for domestic options. Kieran Trippier missed out to Djed Spence, and Marcus Rashford's inconsistent form saw Tuchel look to the future. Trent Alexander-Arnold's disappointing first season at Real Madrid sealed his fate.
Adam Wharton, despite a fine season at Crystal Palace, lost out to Kobbie Mainoo and Jordan Henderson. Morgan Gibbs-White's excellent Nottingham Forest form wasn't enough, and Jarrod Bowen's West Ham struggles hindered his chances. Phil Foden's underwhelming Manchester City season and positional uncertainty also worked against him.
