Story perspectives

Tuchel Cuts Maguire From England World Cup Squad

5/22/2026

Summary

Tuchel Omits

England manager Thomas Tuchel omitted Harry Maguire from the 26-man squad for the tournament in United States, Canada and Mexico.
Maguire posted on Instagram that he was “shocked and gutted” by the decision.
His mother Zoe called the omission “disgraceful” and said she was “absolutely disgusted.”
Tuchel said he respects Maguire’s quality, mentioned a private conversation, and listed Dan Burn, Marc Guehi, Ezri Konsa, Jarell Quansah and John Stones as options.

Summary

Tuchel Picks Toney

Tuchel is considering Ivan Toney as a penalty specialist for the tournament.
He may rest Harry Kane to rely on the specialist after Foden and Cole Palmer have struggled while other forwards have outperformed them.
He says the 26-man roster lets him add players for tactical roles, include specialists for specific situations, and follow his policy of favoring current form and chemistry over seniority as the heat demands fresher rotation.

Summary

Steele Travels

Jason Steele will travel to United States as England’s training goalkeeper despite not being among the three senior keepers.
The 26-man squad has no Leicester City outfield players, highlighting the club’s absence.
Djed Spence, who broke his jaw, earned a call-up covering both flanks.
Trent Alexander-Arnold was omitted, his first England miss since moving abroad.
Tuchel noted that squad members, including Kobbie Mainoo and Nico O’Reilly, have under-21 titles.

History

Historical Context

After captaining England at Euro 2012 and the 2014 World Cup, Steven Gerrard was left out of Roy Hodgson’s 23-man Brazil squad announced on 12 May 2014, ending a run of 114 caps and 38 captaincies. His omission followed a pattern of frequent captain changes—from Terry to Ferdinand to Gerrard—highlighting England’s shift toward form-based selection that has reshaped squad policy.

1 of 4

Tuchel Omits

England manager Thomas Tuchel omitted Harry Maguire from the 26-man squad for the tournament in United States, Canada and Mexico.
Maguire posted on Instagram that he was “shocked and gutted” by the decision.
His mother Zoe called the omission “disgraceful” and said she was “absolutely disgusted.”
Tuchel said he respects Maguire’s quality, mentioned a private conversation, and listed Dan Burn, Marc Guehi, Ezri Konsa, Jarell Quansah and John Stones as options.

1 / 4