Thomas Tuchel has officially named his 26-man England squad for the 2026 World Cup. The announcement includes several major shocks and the removal of established players.
Phil Foden and Cole Palmer have been completely left out of the squad. Harry Maguire has also been axed. Maguire responded to the news immediately, stating he was shocked and gutted to be left at home.
Tuchel has chosen to rely on recent form. Ivan Toney has been recalled to the squad, and Kobbie Mainoo has secured a midfield position. Morgan Rogers and Eberechi Eze were selected ahead of Foden and Palmer. Djed Spence also earned a place in the defence.
The manager defended his selections this morning. He admitted the decisions were painful but insisted they were necessary. He stated that tournament football requires strict team chemistry and trust between the staff and the players. He added that tough decisions give the team the edge needed to win.
The squad list has dominated public discussion today. Social media platforms and pubs are entirely focused on the omissions. The fanbase is sharply split between those backing Tuchel’s harsh approach and those angry that top players like Foden and Palmer have been left behind.
The team will fly to a training camp in the United States in early June to prepare for the tournament.
