Thomas Tuchel’s England World Cup Calls: Maguire, Foden and Palmer Set to Miss Out?
May 21, 2026
England could be heading into the 2026 World Cup without several high-profile names. Harry Maguire, Phil Foden, Cole Palmer and Levi Colwill are among the players reportedly at risk of missing Thomas Tuchel’s final squad.
England’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have already sparked major debate.
With Thomas Tuchel preparing to announce his final squad for the tournament in North America, reports from England suggest several established names could miss out on the final selection.
With only 26 players set to be chosen from a preliminary 55-man shortlist, difficult decisions are inevitable.
Harry Maguire Left “Shocked and Gutted”
Harry Maguire became the first player to publicly reveal that he expects to miss out on England’s final World Cup squad.
The Manchester United defender admitted he was “shocked and gutted” by the decision after believing his performances this season had earned him a place.
Maguire has only featured twice under Tuchel and reportedly failed to convince the England manager despite returning to form.
Phil Foden’s Difficult Season Could Cost Him
Phil Foden is another surprise name linked with exclusion.
The Manchester City midfielder has endured an inconsistent campaign, with reduced playing time during the second half of the season.
Despite producing 10 goals and 7 assists across all competitions, Foden’s impact for England has often been questioned, scoring just four goals in 49 appearances for the national team.
Chelsea Duo Also Facing Uncertainty
Chelsea stars Cole Palmer and Levi Colwill are also reportedly at risk.
Palmer struggled to replicate last season’s form while dealing with fitness issues, finishing the Premier League campaign with 9 goals and 1 assist.
Meanwhile, Colwill’s long-term ACL injury disrupted his season. Although the defender recently returned and impressed, reports suggest his comeback may have arrived too late to secure a World Cup place.
More Big Names Could Miss Out
Reports also indicate that players including:
Luke Shaw
Fikayo Tomori
Lewis Hall
Adam Wharton
may not make England’s final squad.
England have enjoyed strong tournament performances in recent years, but Tuchel’s first World Cup selection could mark the beginning of a new cycle.
World Cups change more than squads. They reshape roles, profiles and team structures.
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