Palmer, Foden, Maguire among biggest snubs from England’s FIFA World Cup squad
Some big names were left off England’s FIFA World Cup squad.
Thomas Tuchel’s 26-man roster was confirmed on Friday morning and multiple international regulars won’t suit up for the Three Lions in June and July.
Here are the biggest snubs from England’s World Cup squad.
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Cole Palmer
Cole Palmer is likely the biggest name omitted from England’s team after the Chelsea forward starred for the Three Lions at the European Championship in 2024, scoring in the final against Spain.
Palmer was the Young Player of the Year in England in 2024, but consistency has been an issue this year and he hasn’t scored in his last 14 games for Chelsea or England.
Phil Foden
Phil Foden is a similar case as Palmer. The Manchester City midfielder has a trophy case littered with awards, but he’s seen a dip in form this year
Tuchel is clearly embracing a strategy of going with the hot hand and Foden’s recent play along with his history of producing just four goals in 49 appearances for England has him on the outside looking in.
Harry Maguire
Harry Maguire completes the big three left off England’s squad. The Manchester United veteran was a staple of the international team at three major tournaments and he is England’s all-time leading goal scorer among defenders.
Coming off a strong season, it makes Maguire’s omission even more surprising and he described himself as “shocked and gutted” at not being included.
Trent Alexander-Arnold
It’s a little less surprising to see Trent Alexander-Arnold not representing England at the World Cup. Alexander-Arnold has had an injury-plagued first season with Real Madrid and the writing has been on the wall as Tuchel has used him sparingly in recent international windows.
Adam Wharton
Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton received his first-ever call up the the senior team at Euro 2024 before going the whole tournament without playing a minute. Tuchel was reportedly worried about Wharton’s ability to cover large distances, something that ultimately kept him off the World Cup squad.
Jarrod Bowen
The hits keep coming in a tough year for Jarrod Bowen. The West Ham winger will likely see his team relegated this weekend and Tuchel has favoured Noni Madueke as Bukayo Saka’s backup over Bowen.
Lewis Hall
Newcastle’s Lewis Hall is another surprise sub, with many fans considering him a better option over Nico O’Reily as England’s starting left back. In the end, Tuchel went with O’Reilly, who has a higher ceiling and had a better season.