Harry Maguire has confirmed that he will not be part of England national football team squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after manager Thomas Tuchel chose a different defensive setup ahead of the tournament.
The 33-year-old Manchester United centre-back expressed his disappointment in a social media statement on Thursday, saying he was “shocked and gutted” by the decision.
“I was confident I could have played a major part this summer for my country after the season I’ve had. I’ve been left shocked and gutted by the decision. I wish the players all the best,” Maguire wrote.
Tuchel Prefers Younger Defensive Options
Tuchel had earlier hinted that defenders Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi and John Stones were ahead of Maguire in England’s defensive hierarchy.
The England manager is believed to favour quicker and more mobile centre-backs as part of his tactical system heading into the World Cup.
The omission marks another setback in Maguire’s international career despite a strong revival at club level during the 2025–26 season.
Maguire Revived Career At Manchester United
After struggling for regular game time under former United boss Erik ten Hag, Maguire fought his way back into the starting lineup during the latter half of the season.
Under manager Michael Carrick, the experienced defender became a regular starter again and helped stabilise an injury-hit United defence.
Maguire started 14 of the club’s final 16 Premier League matches as United secured a third-place finish. His performances also earned him a contract extension keeping him at Old Trafford until 2027.
One Of England’s Most Important Defenders
Since making his senior England debut in 2017, Maguire has become one of the country’s most recognisable defenders.
He has made 66 appearances for England and scored seven international goals — the highest tally by a defender in the history of the England men’s national team.
Maguire played a major role in England’s run to the semi-finals of the 2018 FIFA World Cup and was later named in the Team of the Tournament at UEFA Euro 2020 after helping England reach the final.
However, this will now be the second consecutive major tournament Maguire misses. He was also unavailable for Euro 2024 due to injury.
Despite his exclusion, Maguire ended his statement by wishing the England squad success at the World Cup as Tuchel prepares for his first major tournament in charge.