Harry Maguire has been left out of England’s World Cup squad, with manager Thomas Tuchel opting to move on from the Manchester United centre-back ahead of Friday’s official announcement as reported by Evening Standard on Thursday May 21, 2026.
Journalist Ben Jacobs confirmed the news, with left-back Luke Shaw also missing out. However, Maguire’s United teammate Kobbie Mainoo secured his place in the squad after an impressive finish to the club season.
The 33-year-old defender did not hide his disappointment, telling talkSPORT: “I’ve been left shocked and gutted by the decision.”
Maguire had been a reliable figure in the England setup for years, earning 66 caps and representing the Three Lions at two World Cups and one European Championship.
However, his international involvement has sharply declined since 2024, when injuries and inconsistent form began limiting his availability.
He has made just three appearances for the national team since March of that year, including two outings under Tuchel against Uruguay and Japan earlier this season.
The German tactician made his position clear in March, telling reporters that there are other players available who offer a different profile, effectively signalling the end of Maguire’s England prospects.
With the World Cup likely representing his final opportunity to appear on football’s biggest stage.
On the domestic front, his exclusion from international duty means he will be fully available for Manchester United’s pre-season preparations, which begin in July.
The club has scheduled five friendly matches, including high-profile fixtures against Champions League winners Paris Saint-Germain and Atletico Madrid.
