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‘Gutted’ Maguire left out of World Cup squad as Toney earns surprise recall
22nd May, 2026 09:05 AM
Harry Maguire has been left out of England’s World Cup squad by boss Thomas Tuchel, while Ivan Toney has earned a shock recall.
Maguire posted on social media: “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’ve loved nothing more than putting that shirt on and representing my country over the years. I wish the players, all the best this summer.”
However, Sky Sports News understands that Toney, who has played just two minutes of football under Tuchel, is included in the final 26-man squad.
Maguire, who has 66 caps for his country, has battled his way back into the Man Utd XI, starting 14 of their last 16 Premier League games under Michael Carrick after losing his place during Ruben Amorim’s tenure.
Maguire’s upturn in form led to his recall to the England squad in March, where he impressed in the 1-1 draw with Uruguay and came on as an 83rd-minute sub in the 1-0 loss to Japan.
“I got exactly what I thought, solid, solid central-defender play,” he said of Maguire’s performance. “That’s what he does. Very good on the ball, very calm, strong in the air and in the weapon for set-pieces.
“I haven’t changed my mind, but I see other players I like to start for us, I see other players ahead with a different profile.
“I see Ezri Konsa ahead, I see Marc Guehi ahead. It’s no secret. I see Trevoh Chalobah on the level of mobility was slightly ahead of him.
“Also John Stones, but he had injuries, so he needed to come to camp.”
Tuchel will name his 26-man squad for this summer’s World Cup on Friday morning.
Shaw omitted
Sky Sports News also understands that Maugire’s Man United team-mate Luke Shaw will not be part of the World Cup squad.
Toney has played just two minutes of international football since Euro 2024, and was not included in the last four of Tuchel’s squad.
Toney’s only appearance under Tuchel was a two-minute cameo against Senegal in June 2025.
The former Brentford striker has scored 32 goals in 32 Saudi Pro League games for Al-Ahli this season and told Sky Sports in February that he still harboured hopes of being included in the World Cup squad.
“It would mean a lot [to go to the World Cup],” Toney said.
“I have never played at a World Cup. It would be a dream; everyone dreams of that.
“If we were to win it, that would be so big for the country. You have visions of what could happen. If it comes true, it would be a blessing.
“Maybe [I could bring an advantage due to the heat]. There are great players in the squad and some top English strikers, so I guess everyone will have an opportunity, as everyone will be able to adapt to the heat, but you can say I’m a bit more used to it than others. It’s tough because you have to change your game slightly.
“You can’t be running around crazy because otherwise you run out of steam. You have to be more strategic with the runs you make.
“I guess I won’t have to adapt. I’ve played in 30-plus degrees here, and I feel like I’m adapted to it. All I can do is keep scoring goals. That gives me the best chance possible.”
