Thomas Tuchel reacts to Harry Maguire’s statement after shock World Cup omission

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The Independent

·22 May 2026

Thomas Tuchel reacts to Harry Maguire’s statement after shock World Cup omission

Thomas Tuchel was asked how he felt about Harry Maguire’s statement last night saying he was ‘shocked’ and ‘gutted’ not to be selected in the 2026 England World Cup squad.

The England manager was pressed on his decision during a press conference at Wembley on Friday (22 May).

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Tuchel said: “I was a bit surprised, but I respect his personality a lot, I respect his quality a lot, he had an outstanding season and I can see that disappointment behind it.

“I was still I was a bit surprised because we had a private conversation and he had a chance to express his feelings, but the decision is we stood firmly with our central defenders who carried us through September and November.”