Harry Maguire Left Out Of England's 2026 World Cup Squad Shocks Fans And Pundits

Harry Maguire says being omitted from England's 2026 World Cup squad has left Maguire "shocked and gutted" after a strong season with Manchester United. The defender revealed on Thursday that Thomas Tuchel has decided not to pick Maguire, ahead of Friday's official 26-player announcement.

Maguire has built a long record with England, earning 66 caps and appearing 12 times at World Cup tournaments. Maguire helped England secure fourth place in 2018 and reach the 2022 quarter-finals, and came off the bench against Japan in March, while also captaining the side.

The 33-year-old now sits joint-seventh for England appearances at World Cup finals. Peter Shilton leads with 17, followed by Bobby Moore, Bobby Charlton, Ashley Cole and Terry Butcher on 14,

then David Beckham on 13, with Maguire alongside others on 12 games.

At club level, Maguire has been central to Manchester United's improved form under interim head coach Michael Carrick. Since Carrick took charge, Maguire has recorded the second-highest number of duels won for United with 80, the most aerial duels with 43, and the joint-third most tackles, with 15.

Maguire shared detailed thoughts on social media about missing the 2026 tournament. Maguire wrote: I was confident I could of played a major part this summer for my country after the season I've had.

I was confident I could of played a major part this summer for my country after the season Ive had. Ive been left shocked and gutted by the decision. Ive loved nothing more than putting that shirt on and representing my country over the years. I wish the players, all the pic.twitter.com/9X7asAkCFFHarry Maguire (@HarryMaguire93) May 21, 2026

I've been left shocked and gutted by the decision. Ive loved nothing more than putting that shirt on and representing my country over the years. I wish the players all the best this summer.

The choice to overlook Maguire is expected to open space for other defenders in Tuchel's plans. Reports indicate Chelsea centre-back Levi Colwill will be selected, despite only three club appearances this season after returning from an anterior cruciate ligament injury. Fikayo Tomori, Luke Shaw and Manchester City's Phil Foden are all expected to miss out.

England will compete in Group L at the 2026 World Cup, starting against Croatia on 17 June, before meeting Ghana and Panama. Key group fixtures are outlined below.

Maguire's absence removes one of England's most experienced World Cup performers from a defence already under review by Tuchel. The decision follows notable club form and a recent international appearance in March, leaving England to pursue success in 2026 without a long-serving tournament regular.