Harry Maguire shares how he had a brief but awkward chat with Thomas Tuchel about being left out of England’s World Cup squad.
Harry Maguire opened up about the “awkward” way Thomas Tuchel told him he wouldn’t be going to the World Cup with England. Having been part of England’s World Cup squads in 2018 and 2022, Maguire was left out this time, even though he’s been playing well for Manchester United.
The former Hull City defender didn’t make the 26-man squad, as Tuchel chose Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi, Jarell Quansah, Dan Burn, and John Stones as the five central defenders instead. Maguire shared a statement after hearing the news, saying he was “shocked and gutted” by the decision. His family also spoke out on social media, calling the snub “disgusting.”
Tuchel said he was “surprised” by Maguire’s reaction, explaining that they had a private talk where Maguire got to share how he felt. Meanwhile, Maguire flew to the U.S. to work as a pundit on Netflix’s Rest is Football podcast alongside Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer, and Micah Richards.
He didn’t shy away from the topic and explained how Tuchel broke the news. Unlike USMNT boss Mauricio Pochettino, who didn’t call his players, Tuchel made FaceTime calls to everyone and told them, including Maguire, the tough news.
Maguire said: “He FaceTimes everyone. It was quite an awkward call. I got a text asking if we could talk around 4 pm. It’s a unique way to do it and probably harder for him because he could see our reactions. I told him straight away I was really disappointed. I thought I did enough to be in the squad and could have helped on and off the pitch.”
Tuchel told him he couldn’t give a clear reason but explained that he chose the four players who helped him through autumn. They talked it through, and Maguire admitted it was hard to accept. “After being picked for the March camp and doing well, I thought I’d be in the squad. I finished the season strongly at Manchester United.”
With 66 England caps, Maguire understands he might not get another chance to play in a World Cup and was willing to have a small role if called up this time. Despite his disappointment, he’s still supporting the team and believes they have a great shot at winning, just like in 1966.
He added: “I’m 33 now, so I’ll be 37 at the next World Cup, which feels far away. I wanted to be there—not necessarily to start, but even just to play a minute and be with the lads. Football is full of opinions, and no pick will please everyone. I wish the squad all the best. They’re top players, and I think we have a real chance to win it.”
England are set to start their World Cup journey on Wednesday, playing Croatia at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. Reports say Stones and Konsa are the most likely to be the first-choice center-back pair for England.