Tuchel drops big names in bold England shake‑up

Thomas Tuchel delivered a dramatic statement on Friday by excluding several major stars from England’s World Cup squad, with Phil Foden, Cole Palmer and Trent Alexander‑Arnold among the most striking absentees. The German coach, hired to end England’s six‑decade wait for a major trophy, opted for a series of uncompromising decisions that will define his tenure if the Three Lions fall short this summer.

Foden and Palmer, both coming off disappointing club seasons, were left out alongside Morgan Gibbs‑White and Dominic Calvert‑Lewin, despite their strong Premier League scoring records. Veteran midfielder Jordan Henderson earned a place ahead of Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, while Harry Maguire admitted he was “shocked and gutted” after missing the cut. Luke Shaw was also overlooked. Tuchel has nevertheless gambled on John Stones, who has barely featured for Manchester City due to injuries. Ivan Toney, now playing in Saudi Arabia, secured a surprise recall. England open against Croatia on June 17.