Several prominent players were excluded from England’s FIFA World Cup 2026 squad announced on Friday, May 22, 2026. Phil Foden and Cole Palmer were among the notable absences from Thomas Tuchel’s selection. The coach stressed the value of team spirit and unselfishness as the side aims for its first men’s title since 1966.
Real Madrid defender Trent Alexander-Arnold and Manchester United pair Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw were also left out of the 26-man roster for the event in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Tuchel explained that the goal was to assemble the strongest possible unit rather than simply gathering the most gifted individuals. He noted that championships are won by teams and that success requires collective commitment.
Foden, who earned double Player of the Year honors with Manchester City two years earlier, and Chelsea’s Palmer, a standout at the 2024 European Championship, both had difficult club seasons and were dropped. Maguire expressed shock at his omission.
Tuchel assured supporters that the selected players are fully dedicated to their roles and the team’s objectives. Established stars Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, and Declan Rice were retained.
Ivan Toney received a surprise call-up after limited appearances since joining the Saudi Pro League. Kobbie Mainoo earned inclusion following a strong finish to the season. Arsenal players Eberechi Eze and Noni Madueke will make their World Cup debuts, while Marcus Rashford returns to a major tournament after time at Barcelona.
Foden had featured regularly under Tuchel but saw reduced starts amid a dip in form. Palmer, previously viewed as a rising talent, also struggled with consistency and has not scored in his last 14 matches.
The squad includes goalkeepers Dean Henderson, Jordan Pickford, and James Trafford; defenders Dan Burn, Marc Guehi, Reece James, Ezri Konsa, Tino Livramento, Nico O’Reilly, Jarell Quansah, Djed Spence, and John Stones; midfielders Elliot Anderson, Jude Bellingham, Eberechi Eze, Jordan Henderson, Kobbie Mainoo, Declan Rice, and Morgan Rogers; and forwards Anthony Gordon, Harry Kane, Noni Madueke, Marcus Rashford, Bukayo Saka, Ivan Toney, and Ollie Watkins.
