Harry Maguire’s hope of representing England at the 2026 FIFA World Cup appears to have suffered a huge blow as Thomas Tuchel insists he’s the fifth-choice centre back.
Manchester United star Maguire put in a good performance during England’s 1-1 friendly draw with Uruguay on Friday. It was his first appearance under Tuchel and he played the second half as captain.
However, his performance has not earned him an automatic spot in the team. Tuchel while acknowledging the Manchester United defender’s strengths, noted that he remains behind Ezri Konsa, Marc Guéhi, John Stones and the injured Trevoh Chalobah in the pecking order.
Harry Maguire reacts during the international friendly match between England and Uruguay. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
“I got exactly what I thought, solid, solid central defender play,” Tuchel said.
“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 Trevor 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.
“I needed to meet him in person to see how he acts within the group.
“He will stay with us.
“Like I said, he is an asset, of course, that he can also be super important in a tournament, in knockout football, in defending a lead and chasing a game with crosses and long throw ins and set pieces.”
Asked whether he would be in the squad if it had to be named now, Tuchel replied: “If, if, if. We don’t need to name the squad tomorrow. He had a good game.
“He did what he does for Man United. He did it straight away. I’m very happy with him. To be honest, I haven’t changed my mind. I got everything I expected from him.
“If I have to name it tomorrow, we have a lot of injuries, he could be in it. Who else would be there in the centre of defence?”
Maguire has proven to be a team player and would deliver whenever he’s called upon, however, it’s still unseen if he’ll be pleased with Tuchel’s latest submission.
