Harry Maguire has admitted he is “shocked and gutted” after being ruthlessly left out of Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup.
The 33-year-old Manchester United defender was informed of the brutal decision via a direct phone call from the German tactician ahead of Friday’s official 26-man roster announcement.
Taking to social media, the 66-cap veteran expressed deep disappointment, stating he was highly confident he could play a major role in North America after a strong domestic campaign. Maguire’s mother, Zoe, fiercely backed her son online, branding the high-profile omission an “absolute disgrace.”
The snub comes as a massive surprise given Maguire’s impressive structural resurgence under Michael Carrick at Old Trafford, where he anchored United to a commanding third-place finish in the Premier League. Instead, Tuchel has opted for a bold defensive shake-up, choosing to rely on the likes of Marc Guéhi, Dan Burn, Jarell Quansah, and John Stones.
Maguire is not the only superstar casualty of Tuchel’s uncompromising vision for the tournament. In an incredibly brave selection clear-out, Manchester City’s Phil Foden and Chelsea’s Cole Palmer have also been left at home following underwhelming domestic seasons.