- Man Utd’s Harry Maguire snubbed by England
- Thomas Tuchel opts to omit him from World Cup squad
- Maguire “shocked”
Harry Maguire is “shocked” and “gutted” to have been left out of Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the World Cup. The Manchester United centre-back is a shock omission and one that will ultimately cost the Three Lions in North America.
Tuchel’s squad has yet to be announced, but Maguire has already reacted to the news that he isn’t included. It comes as a massive surprise, especially to United fans who have watched him enjoy one of his best seasons at Old Trafford.
Maguire has always been one of England’s best performers and was named in the Team of the Tournament at the 2018 World Cup and Euro 2020. It is astonishing a manager of Tuchel’s ilk doesn’t see what he brings to a team.
Maguire “shocked” to miss out on England squad
Maguire has reacted to his omission with a statement to talkSPORT (via Ben Jacobs). He said:
“I was confident I could have 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 wish the players all the best.”
Maguire has earned 66 caps for England and had been a crucial member of the Three Lions’ team that advanced to the final of Euro 2020 and Euro 2024. He’s been just as influential for United this season, appearing 24 times across competitions, posting two goals and as many assists.
Tuchel appears to have selected Levi Colwill, who has only just returned from injury. The fact that the German coach thinks the Chelsea star warrants a place in the squad over Maguire is quite frankly ridiculous.
A ridiculous decision
Maguire has much-needed experience, and his outing in a 1-1 draw to Uruguay during March’s international break proved his worth. It was during the break that Tuchel suggested the 33-year-old was low down his pecking order.
The Red Devils centre-back is probably the biggest name to miss out on a place in the squad. England start their World Cup campaign in Group L against Croatia (June 17), Ghana (June 23) and Panama (June 27).
For Maguire, he’ll take the first half of the summer off and recharge his batteries ahead of another season at United. He penned a new one-year contract extension earlier this month, rewarded for a terrific campaign with the Red Devils.
