Tuchel Names Rashford and Mainoo in England Squad Amid Maguire Backlash

Thomas Tuchel has turned again to Old Trafford for England’s latest squad – but he has also made it clear he did not enjoy the noise that followed one of his biggest World Cup calls.

The England head coach has named Manchester United pair Kobbie Mainoo and Marcus Rashford in his group for the extended international break, rewarding their sharp starts to the season. Mainoo’s rise continues at remarkable speed, while Rashford’s place reflects a return to form and influence in attack.

One United defender, though, remains on the outside looking in.

Tuchel unimpressed by Maguire backlash

Harry Maguire, now a key figure under Michael Carrick at United, was left out of Tuchel’s World Cup squad and did not take the decision quietly.

Convinced he had earned a place, the centre-back went public with his frustration. On social media he wrote: “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.”

The reaction did not stop there. His mother, Zoe, branded the decision “absolutely disgusted” on social media, while his brother Joe called it “possibly the worst decision I’ve ever seen in my life. No words.”

Maguire then flew to New York to work as a pundit on The Rest is Football podcast, where he described the moment he discovered he had missed out. Tuchel, he said, delivered the news over a video call.

“He FaceTimes everyone. It was quite an awkward call,” Maguire recalled. “I said straightaway I was really disappointed. I thought I did enough to be in the squad and thought I could have helped and had a part to play on and off the pitch. He said he can't give me an excuse but he had gone with the four lads who got him through the qualifiers.

“It was tough to take. I did think I would be in the squad after being selected for the March camp under him for the first time. I did really well in both games and then went back to Manchester United and finished the season really strongly.”

Tuchel has now responded. After unveiling his latest squad, he made no attempt to hide his displeasure at how the situation played out.

“It does not help,” he told talkSPORT. “I will not hold it against him for the rest of his life, because I’m not that type of person. I can forget easily and quickly.

“But I didn’t like it and it doesn’t help. I’ve not spoken to him since.”

United’s contrasting fortunes with England

While Maguire waits and wonders, two of his club teammates move centre stage for the Nations League clashes with Spain, Czechia and Croatia.

Mainoo’s inclusion underlines Tuchel’s willingness to trust emerging talent in midfield, while Rashford’s recall reflects his impact for United so far this campaign.

For now, England’s route runs through those in form – and through those who keep their frustrations in-house.