Thomas Tuchel drops big names from England's World Cup squad
MANCHESTER, England (AP) — Big names were left out of England’s World Cup squad on Friday, with Phil Foden and Cole Palmer the most notable omissions from Thomas Tuchel’s roster. There was no place either for Real Madrid defender Trent Alexander-Arnold or Manchester United duo Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw. Maguire confirmed on Thursday he would not be going to the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico, saying he was “shocked and gutted” not to be included.
There were further shock waves among England fans when it became clear that more Premier League stars had been dropped. “It has been a tough process to decide on the nomination, but I have full belief in this group of players,” said England coach Tuchel. “They all deserve their place.
The squad and everyone involved with the team will give all we can to make the country proud... we hope for a very special summer. ” Manchester City forward Foden was the double player of the year in England just two years ago.
Chelsea's Palmer was one of England's star players at the European Championship in 2024 — scoring in the final against Spain. But both players endured disappointing seasons with their clubs and ultimately paid the price by failing to make the cut for Tuchel's 26-man squad. England's top players — Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice — were all included.
A surprise inclusion was Ivan Toney, who has only played once for his country since moving to the Saudi league after Euro 2024. Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has also been included after making a late run in the second half of the season. Mainoo had been an emerging figure at the Euros, but lost his England place after being pushed to the fringes at United under former coach Ruben Amorim.