Overview
- Thomas Tuchel left Harry Maguire out of his 26‑man England squad announced across May 22–23, a decision he said was based on team balance, leadership and trust rather than picking the most individually talented players.
- Maguire posted on X that he was “shocked and gutted” and his mother, wife and brothers publicly criticised the omission, describing the decision as “disgraceful” and expressing deep disappointment.
- Tuchel said he had a private conversation with Maguire, acknowledged the player’s upset and called the public reaction unnecessary while standing by his selections at a press conference.
- Some outlets reported that prosecutors connected to Maguire’s 2020 Greek conviction argued a US visa would be unlikely, but no official evidence has been presented that visa or legal concerns were decisive in the squad choice.
- The row has drawn sharp pundit criticism, including from Roy Keane, and left Maguire—a 67‑cap England veteran who enjoyed a strong season for Manchester United—training with his club as questions about his international future linger.