England World Cup Squad: Phil Foden, Cole Palmer and Trent Alexander-Arnold Left Out
Reports say Tuchel favored fitter options after injuries and poor form left several established England players out of the 26-man squad.
- Reports emerged on Wednesday that England manager Thomas Tuchel excluded high-profile players Phil Foden and Cole Palmer from his final 26-man FIFA World Cup squad, with the official roster expected on Friday, May 22, 2026.
- While Palmer battled muscle injuries throughout the 2025/26 season, Foden has struggled with form since 2024; Tuchel previously noted the midfielder "struggles to show it on the pitch."
- Confirming his exclusion on May 21, veteran defender Harry Maguire, who holds 66 international caps, said he was "left shocked and gutted by the decision." Tuchel also omitted 30-year-old Luke Shaw and 22-year-old Adam Wharton.
- Tuchel reportedly opted to lean on defenders Dan Burn, John Stones, Jarell Quansah, Ezri Konsa, and Marc Guehi, leaving out Newcastle standout Lewis Hall despite his potential to start at left-back.
- Ahead of this summer's FIFA World Cup in North America, The Sporting News reviewed the reported roster changes, which reflect Tuchel's preference for fitness and form over previous international status.
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