Harry Maguire’s mum and brother criticize Thomas Tuchel’s choice after he missed out on England’s World Cup team
Harry Maguire’s mum says she is really upset about her son not making the 26-man England squad, and his brother even called it “possibly the worst decision I’ve ever seen.”
On Thursday afternoon, Harry confirmed he won’t be part of this summer’s World Cup in the US, Canada, and Mexico. The 33-year-old defender, who’s been playing really well for Manchester United lately, said he was “shocked” and “gutted” when Thomas Tuchel left him out.
“I believed I could have played a big role this summer for my country after the season I’ve had. I’ve been left shocked and gutted by the decision,” Harry shared on social media. “I’ve loved nothing more than wearing that shirt and representing my country over the years.” He has made 66 appearances for England since 2017. “I wish all the players the best this summer.”
Harry was called up for England’s friendlies against Uruguay and Japan back in March, but Tuchel didn’t seem fully convinced by him, even with his good form at United. In March, Tuchel said: “I see other players I prefer to start for us with different qualities.” He mentioned Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi, Trevoh Chalobah, and John Stones as players ahead of Maguire.
Right after Harry announced he wasn’t on the squad, his mum Zoe shared her feelings on social media, saying simply, “Absolutely disgusted.”
Then, about an hour later, Harry’s older brother Joe, who’s played non-league football before, wrote: “This might possibly be the worst decision I’ve ever seen in my life. No words.”
Tuchel will officially announce the 26-man squad on Friday morning at Wembley Stadium, but some names have already leaked. Manchester United’s Kobbie Mainoo should be included, along with Eberechi Eze, Jarell Quansah, John Stones, Tino Livramento, Ivan Toney, Jordan Henderson, Dan Burn, and Noni Madueke.
Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins is also expected to make the team, plus his teammates Morgan Rodgers and Ezri Konsa, who have had great seasons under Unai Emery.
On the other hand, Manchester City’s Phil Foden and Cole Palmer will miss out. Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White, who has been one of the best players in the Premier League recently with 17 goals this season, was also left off the list, which has caused a lot of buzz online. Many people think it’s unfair to leave him out.
Other players expected to miss out include Jarrod Bowen, Lewis Hall, Luke Shaw, Levi Colwill, Adam Wharton, Fikayo Tomori, Djed Spence, and Dominic Calvert-Lewin.