Harry Maguire, the 33-year-old Manchester United centre-back, has confirmed his omission from England’s 26-man squad for the upcoming World Cup, set to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The news, which Maguire himself announced on Thursday afternoon, comes ahead of manager Thomas Tuchel’s official squad announcement at Wembley Stadium on Friday morning.

Maguire, who has earned 66 caps for England since 2017 and was part of the squad for March’s international friendlies, expressed profound disappointment at the decision.

“I was confident I could of played a major part this summer for my country after the season I’ve had,” Maguire shared on social media. “I’ve been left shocked and gutted by the decision.” He added, “I’ve loved nothing more than putting that shirt on and representing my country over the years. I wish the players, all the best this summer.”

I was confident I could of 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’ve loved nothing more than putting that shirt on and representing my country over the years.

I wish the players, all the… pic.twitter.com/9X7asAkCFF

— Harry Maguire (@HarryMaguire93) May 21, 2026

Maguire’s family react with fury

The exclusion has sparked outrage among Maguire’s family. His mother, Zoe Maguire, posted on X, stating she was “Absolutely disgusted” by the decision. His older brother, Joe Maguire, echoed the sentiment, calling it “possibly the worst decision I’ve ever seen in my life. No words.”

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This might possibly be the worst decision I’ve ever seen in my life. No words 😳😳 https://t.co/behgcBvQ6z

— Joe Maguire (@JoeMaguire8) May 21, 2026

The controversy is heightened by reports that Maguire has been one of Manchester United’s standout performers in recent months. Despite this perceived good form, Tuchel had previously indicated a preference for defenders with a “different profile.”

Speaking in March, the England manager outlined his thinking:

“I see other players I like to start for us, I see other players ahead with a different profile.”

“I see Ezri Konsa ahead. I see Marc Guehi ahead. It’s no secret. I see Trevoh Chalobah on the level of mobility was slightly ahead of him. Also John Stones, but he had injuries, so he needed to come to camp.”

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Other notable omissions and inclusions

Leaks regarding the squad selection have emerged ahead of the official announcement. Alongside Maguire, other significant players expected to miss out include Manchester City midfielder Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, and Nottingham Forest midfielder Morgan Gibbs-White, who has scored 17 goals this season. The Telegraph reported Gibbs-White’s omission.

Conversely, several players are anticipated to be included in Tuchel’s final 26.

These are expected to feature:

• Kobbie Mainoo
• Eberechi Eze
• Jarell Quansah
• John Stones
• Tino Livramento
• Ivan Toney
• Jordan Henderson
• Dan Burn
• Noni Madueke
• Ollie Watkins
• Morgan Rodgers
• Ezri Konsa

Further players expected to miss out include Jarrod Bowen, Lewis Hall, and Luke Shaw, as Tuchel finalises his selection for the global tournament.

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Sources: www.skysports.com, www.sportbible.com

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