Thomas Tuchel's first big list as England coach heading into the 2026 World Cup caused an immediate wave of reactions in English football. The absence of several regular names in the team, including Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Harry Maguire, became the main topic of debate after the official announcement of the 26 squad for the World Cup to be held in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

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The German coach opted for a partial renewal of the squad and left out players who had played a leading role in the last major tournaments. In Palmer's case, the decision was related to the lack of continuity resulting from a groin injury. Foden, for his part, lost weight at Manchester City for a good part of the season, despite showing a better version at the end of the season.

Alexander-Arnold's exclusion also raised eyebrows in England. The Real Madrid full-back was left out of a squad that also does not include Kyle Walker, already retired from the international stage, or Ben White, affected by physical problems. Against this background, Tuchel chose Reece James, Tino Livramento and Djed Spence to cover the defensive sides.

The call includes a mix of established footballers and others who are going through stages of growth in different European and Asian leagues. Harry Kane will lead the attack alongside Ivan Toney, Ollie Watkins, Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford and Anthony Gordon, while Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice and Kobbie Mainoo stand out in midfield.

Maguire's reaction and the debate in England

Harry Maguire's situation raised the controversy even further. Before the official announcement, several names had already been leaked to the English press, and the Manchester United defender decided to publicly express his disappointment at not making the final list.

"I was sure I could have played an important role this summer for my country after the season I've had. I've been surprised and gutted by the decision. I've loved nothing more than putting on that shirt and representing my country over the years. I wish the players all the best this summer," the centre-back wrote on his Instagram account.

The publication generated divided comments between fans and analysts. While some questioned Tuchel's decision to leave out an experienced defender, others criticized Maguire for publicly expressing his displeasure before the call-up was officially known.

The English team will play two friendly preparation matches before the start of the tournament. On June 6 they will face New Zealand and four days later they will play against Costa Rica, both matches on US soil. England will debut in Group L of the World Cup on June 17 against Croatia. They will then face Ghana on the 23rd and close the group stage against Panama on June 27.

Tuchel will take on the challenge of leading England in a tournament where the team will seek to end a six-decade drought without winning major titles. The new call made it clear that the German coach intends to build a different squad to face international competition.