Harry Maguire spills beans on how an awkward FACETIME call from manager Thomas Tuchel shattered his FIFA World Cup 2026 dream

Harry Maguire has opened up about the moment he learned he would not be part of England’s squad for the FIFA World Cup 2026. The experienced Manchester United defender was one of the biggest names left out by England manager Thomas Tuchel when the final 26-man squad was announced.

Maguire admitted the decision came as a major disappointment after what he believed had been a strong season at club level and a successful return to the national team setup earlier in the year.Speaking about the experience, Maguire revealed that Tuchel personally contacted players through FaceTime to deliver the news. The 33-year-old said he received a message asking for a conversation before the call took place.

While he appreciated the manager speaking directly, Maguire described the discussion as uncomfortable and difficult. The defender felt he had done enough to earn a place on the plane and was surprised when he was informed that he would not be included in England’s World Cup plans.

Harry Maguire says FIFA World Cup omission was difficult to accept

Harry Maguire said on The Rest is Football podcast that Thomas Tuchel chose to contact every player individually before the squad announcement. According to the defender, the England boss wanted to speak face-to-face through video calls, allowing players to hear the decision directly rather than finding out through the media.

The former England regular admitted that he immediately expressed his disappointment. He believed his performances for both club and country had earned him a spot in the squad. Maguire felt he could have contributed not only on the pitch but also through his experience in the dressing room.During the conversation, Tuchel reportedly explained that he preferred to remain loyal to the defenders who had played key roles during the previous international windows.

The England manager did not point to any specific weakness in Maguire’s game but instead stressed that his selection was based on continuity and trust in the group that had helped build momentum.Maguire said the decision was difficult to process because he had recently returned to the England setup and performed well in the opportunities he was given. After those appearances, he continued to impress for Manchester United and believed his chances of making the World Cup squad were strong.Despite the setback, the defender has no plans to retire from international football. Maguire said he still feels capable of contributing to England in the future and remains motivated to add to his 66 caps. He suggested that even one more appearance for his country would mean a great deal to him.After the squad announcement, Maguire publicly expressed his disappointment, saying he was shocked by the decision and felt he had earned the opportunity to play a significant role at the tournament. His wife, Fern, and mother, Zoe, also voiced support for him, questioning the omission.