Tuchel Ranks Maguire Fifth Among England Defenders

G. E (Elbotola)

28 March 2026at21:30

England national team coach Thomas Tuchel has stated that Manchester United defender Harry Maguire is now at least fifth in the pecking order for centre-backs within the England squad, despite the player's recent appearance in a friendly against Uruguay. This declaration deals a significant blow to the veteran defender's hopes of making the final squad for the upcoming World Cup finals, especially given the German coach's firm stance on his current technical vision for the position.

Tuchel explicitly named the players he prefers in the backline, placing Ezri Konsa, Marc Guéhi, John Stones, and Trevoh Chalobah ahead of Maguire. Regarding his technical preferences, Tuchel stated, “I see Ezri Konsa ahead, and I see Marc Guéhi ahead as well, this is no secret. I also believe Trevoh Chalobah is slightly superior to him in terms of movement.” He clarified that he has not changed his technical conviction, despite acknowledging Maguire's leadership qualities.

In his first appearance under the new coach, Harry Maguire played the second half of the friendly match against Uruguay, which ended in a 1-1 draw. He wore the captain's armband and delivered a solid performance that earned his coach's approval. Commenting on the display, Thomas Tuchel said, “I got exactly what I expected, a very solid performance at centre-back. This is what he always does; he is very good on the ball, calm, strong in aerial duels, and a weapon from set-pieces.” However, the coach qualified his statement by adding, “I haven't changed my mind, but I see other players I prefer to start. I see other players ahead with different profiles,” emphasizing that this technical view does not diminish the value of the player's contribution in that match.

This preference comes at a time when John Stones is sidelined due to a calf injury, which kept him out of the Uruguay clash and will also prevent him from participating in the upcoming friendly against Japan. The England coach is expected to finalize his decision regarding the World Cup squad when the official list is announced at the end of the current football season.

Q&A

What is Thomas Tuchel's current assessment of Harry Maguire's position in the England squad?

Thomas Tuchel currently ranks Harry Maguire as at least fifth among England's centre-backs, despite his recent solid performance. Tuchel prefers other defenders based on his technical vision for the position, which deals a blow to Maguire's World Cup aspirations.

How does Thomas Tuchel's ranking impact Harry Maguire's chances for the World Cup?

Thomas Tuchel's ranking significantly diminishes Harry Maguire's chances of making the final World Cup squad. The coach's firm technical stance, even after Maguire's approved performance against Uruguay, suggests a clear preference for other defensive profiles.

When will Thomas Tuchel finalize his decision on the England World Cup squad?

Thomas Tuchel is expected to finalize his decision on the England World Cup squad at the end of the current football season. The official list will be announced then, determining which players, including Maguire, will represent the nation in the upcoming finals.