Harry Maguire Speaks Out on "Awkward Call" with England Coach Thomas Tuchel
Harry Maguire has never been one to shy away from difficult conversations, which even includes a phone call about his omission from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The England defender finally opened up about the details of his conversation with Thomas Tuchel after learning about his snub from the tournament.
The conversation took place after the England manager informed Maguire through a FaceTime call that he had been left out of the squad. The subject of the discussion only made things more awkward for the two, as Maguire shared his side of the story on the new Netflix show "Rest Is Football," hosted by Gary Lineker.
"It was quite an awkward call," the defender said, claiming Tuchel called him on FaceTime everyone to share his decision. "It makes it harder for himself to see our reactions and things like that. But I think he said he's gone with the four lads that got him through the qualifying. But he did say he can't really give me an excuse."
"We had a few words."
— Netflix UK & Ireland (@NetflixUK) June 16, 2026
Harry Maguire tells @RestIsFootball how Thomas Tuchel broke the news of him being left out of the England squad. pic.twitter.com/U2kRGFXY36
Tuchel is expected to play four players from Reece James, Marc Guehi, Nico O'Reilly, Ezri Konsa, and John Stones in defense. Maguire, who has 66 international caps and seven goals, was clearly upset with his manager's decision as he revealed that both men exchanged some words. "I'm quite a big personality. I'm experienced. And I was really disappointed."
The veteran defender also added that he will be 37 years old at the next World Cup, which could further limit his chances of representing England on the grand stage. Maguire was even willing to simply sit on the bench and support his teammates rather than demanding a starting role. However, Tuchel wasn't willing to agree and remained firm in his decision to snub the Manchester United defender.
Regardless of what happened, Maguire's support for the Three Lions has remained unchanged. He said, "No matter what squad he would have picked, there would have been people who missed out. So, wish them all the best. They're all top players and I think we've got a great chance."
Maguire's comments revisit the day when he publicly announced his omission from the World Cup squad before Tuchel even shared the 26-man roster. The England manager was surprised to see the defender make a post on social media despite their conversation. Nonetheless, both men will now hope for England to win their first World Cup since 1966.
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This story was originally published June 16, 2026 at 10:25 AM.