Thomas Tuchel issues response to Harry Maguire's statement about failing to make England squad

In his first public appearance after naming his divisive 26-man England squad for the 2026 World Cup, Thomas Tuchel has expressed his shock at the backlash he faced from outcast centre-back Harry Maguire.

Tuchel's squad for the upcoming tournament in North America was barren of familiar names, as the new boss gutted the old Southgate brigade, aside from the evergreen Jordan Henderson.

With notable omissions like Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, and Lewis Hall, one of the biggest controversies has come by the way of Harry Maguire.

The England manager named five centre-backs in the team, with Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi, Jarrel Quansah, Dan Burn, and John Stones all travelling on the plane in June.

But having seen Maguire's unhappy statement on social media, Thomas Tuchel has now revealed the reason why he left the Manchester United man at home, claiming he was 'surprised' by the public post.

Thomas Tuchel 'surprised' by Maguire as he reveals reason for squad omission

Having made bold reasons to leave Phil Foden out of the squad, reports have suggested that the reason Harry Maguire was left out of the squad was that he wouldn't be a regular starter and felt he wouldn't thrive in a backroom capacity.

Maguire clearly didn't agree with whatever reason he was left out, though, as he took to social media to express his concern.

Following that, Thomas Tuchel has now hit back at the 33-year-old, saying that it was loyalty to players under his watch that was the reason.

"I was surprised to read Maguire’s statement," he said.

"We had a private conversation and he had the chance to express his feelings”.

“The decision is we stuck with the central defenders who carried us through the autumn”.

Getty Images

Maguire claimed that he was 'shocked' at the omission after becoming confident that he'd secured his place.

"I was confident I could have played a major part this summer for my country after the season I’ve had," he told talkSPORT.

"I’ve been left shocked and gutted by the decision. I wish the players all the best."

The debacle also saw Maguire's family take to social media, saying it was 'disgusting' that he didn't get a call-up.

Tuchel's bold squad will likely be scrutinised now, with many senior players waiting in the wings.

But should football come home, Tuchel will have made a massive precedent for future selections.