Correct: Tuchel speaks frankly about cutting 11 star players from England's 2026 World Cup squad.
On 22 May 2026, Thomas Tuchel, England's head coach, gave his first interview after announcing the final 26-player squad for the 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada from 11 June to 19 July.
However, Thomas Tuchel shocked many by dropping 11 high-profile players, sparking widespread debate, as follows.
- Trent Alexander-Arnold (Real Madrid), Harry Maguire (Manchester United), Phil Foden (Manchester City), Cole Palmer (Chelsea).
Morgan Gibbs-White (Nottingham Forest), Luke Shaw (Manchester United), Levi Colwill (Chelsea), Fikayo Tomori (AC Milan), Adam Worthington (Crystal Palace), Miles Lewis-Skelly (Arsenal), James Garner (Everton).
Thomas Tuchel explained the reasons for cutting these 11 from the initial 55-player list submitted to FIFA, before reducing it to the final 26: "Cutting players from 55 was very difficult, sometimes painfully so... I felt the emotions during the calls. I contacted every player in our training camp. Many deserved to be with us."
"We rely heavily on the players who were with us in the last three training camps. Does that mean others aren't good enough? No."
"Dropping some players was about positional needs. These tough decisions had to be made before the tournament to avoid burdening them throughout. Although painful for some, I believe it was the right choice."
"There were many phone calls in the last three days with intense thought and major decisions. Once decided, it gives clarity and advantage. I can hardly wait to board the plane."
"I like tough decisions... It's impossible to satisfy everyone. Ultimately, we must select the team my staff and I believe in and love."
"If there's doubt, you cannot perform at the same level. So it depends on who we trust, who can deliver, who sets the standard, who leads. It’s about energy, connection, and trust between me and the players."
