2026 World Cup: Thomas Tuchel names England squad
England manager Thomas Tuchel has sparked fierce debate after unveiling a bold and controversial squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, leaving out several of the country’s biggest stars in a ruthless selection overhaul.
Among the notable absentees are Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, Trent Alexander-Arnold and Harry Maguire, omissions that have already triggered strong reactions from fans and pundits alike.
The German coach appears to have prioritised tactical discipline and system fit over reputation, selecting a squad built around balance, intensity and versatility rather than established star power.
England captain Harry Kane leads the squad alongside key names including Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice.
There were also places for emerging talents such as Kobbie Mainoo and Morgan Rogers, underlining Tuchel’s willingness to place trust in a younger generation ahead of the tournament.
The squad announcement has divided opinion across England, with some supporters praising Tuchel’s decisiveness while others questioned the exclusion of players widely regarded among the Premier League’s elite.
England begin their World Cup campaign against Croatia on 17 June before facing Ghana in what is already shaping up to be one of the standout fixtures of the group stage on 23 June.
The meeting with the Black Stars is expected to attract huge global attention, given Ghana’s history of producing difficult encounters for European opposition on the international stage.
Tuchel, appointed with the task of finally ending England’s long wait for major tournament success, now faces immediate scrutiny over whether his uncompromising approach can deliver results on football’s biggest stage.
For now, one thing is certain, England’s road to the 2026 World Cup has begun with shockwaves.
Full squad below
England World Cup squad
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