Key Omissions and Inclusions in Tuchel’s Squad

England manager Thomas Tuchel announced his 2026 World Cup squad on Friday, leaving out several high-profile names including Cole Palmer and Phil Foden; Both players were key figures in England’s Euro 2024 run but faced exclusion due to poor club form this season.

Real Madrid’s Trent Alexander-Arnold and Manchester United defender Harry Maguire were also omitted from the squad. Maguire expressed shock at the decision on social media, stating, “I was confident I could [have] played a major part this summer for my country after the season I’ve had.”

Tuchel, who has been tasked with ending England’s 60-year wait for a major international tournament win, made several bold choices that have already sparked debate, as Veteran Brentford midfielder Jordan Henderson was included at the expense of Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton.

Controversial Inclusion of Ivan Toney

Saudi-based Al-Ahli striker Ivan Toney was a surprise addition to the squad, despite having played only two minutes of international football since moving to Saudi Arabia in 2024. Toney had previously made an impact off the bench at the Euros two years ago.

Tuchel defended his selection decisions, stating that he had to make tough calls to ensure the best possible team for the World Cup, but he mentioned the emotional difficulty of informing players they would not be on the plane to the United States.

“It was difficult. Sometimes painfully difficult and like even in the phone calls I felt the emotion,” Tuchel said. “So I called all players that were with us in camp at least one time, I called them, I wanted to show at least the appreciation and the respect for what they have done.”

England’s World Cup Squad and Upcoming Fixtures

England’s 2026 World Cup squad includes goalkeepers Jordan Pickford, Dean Henderson, and James Trafford; the defenders in the squad are Reece James, Tino Livramento, Dan Burn, Marc Guehi, John Stones, Nico O’Reilly, Ezri Konsa, Jarell Quansah, and Djed Spence.

Midfielders selected include Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson, Jude Bellingham, Jordan Henderson, Kobbie Mainoo, Morgan Rogers, and Eberechi Eze; the forwards named in the squad are Harry Kane, Ivan Toney, Ollie Watkins, Bukayo Saka, Noni Madueke, Marcus Rashford, and Anthony Gordon.

England will kick off their World Cup campaign against Croatia in Dallas on June 17, followed by matches against Ghana on June 23 and Panama four days later. Tuchel emphasized his excitement about the upcoming campaign, stating he was feeling “in between relieved and excited and ready to go.”