England manager Thomas Tuchel has named his squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026, leaving out several big-name stars in a decision that has sparked major reactions.
Chelsea midfielder Cole Palmer and Manchester City star Phil Foden were among the most surprising omissions from the final list announced on Friday.
Real Madrid defender Trent Alexander-Arnold was also left out, while Saudi-based striker Ivan Toney earned a shock call-up.
Tuchel, who previously won the UEFA Champions League with Chelsea, has been tasked with ending England’s long wait for a major international trophy since 1966.
The German coach, formerly of Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich, has taken bold selection decisions that will be heavily scrutinised depending on England’s performance in the tournament.
Palmer and Foden both played key roles in England’s run to the Euro 2024 final, but their exclusion has been linked to inconsistent club form this season.
Tuchel admitted it was painful informing players they would not be travelling to the tournament.
“It was difficult, sometimes painfully difficult and like even in the phone calls I felt the emotion,” he said. “So I called all players that were with us in camp at least one time, I called them, I wanted to show at least the appreciation and the respect for what they have done.”
He added that he is now focused on the tournament ahead and excited to begin the campaign with the selected squad.
