Harry Maguire's England return sparks 2026 World Cup selection debate under Tuchel
Harry Maguire has returned to the England squad for the first time since 2024. The defender played a full 90 minutes in a 1-1 draw against Uruguay, marking his comeback under manager Thomas Tuchel. With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, discussions about his role in the team have reignited among pundits and former players. Maguire's recall comes as Tuchel evaluates his options ahead of the 2026 tournament. Despite being fifth-choice centre-back at present, his experience has drawn support from several football figures. Former striker Tony Cascarino argued that the 31-year-old's leadership and international know-how could prove valuable in a major competition.
Journalist Shaun Custis suggested Maguire should move up to fourth-choice, citing his reliability in high-pressure games. Kevin Davies, another ex-professional, also backed the idea of including him in the World Cup squad. The debate follows Maguire's steady performance against Uruguay, where he helped secure a draw.
England's current squad features established names like Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice, and Jordan Henderson. However, Tuchel has yet to confirm his preferred starting centre-backs for the tournament. The manager's assessment phase continues as preparations ramp up for summer 2026. Maguire's return to international football has sparked fresh discussions about his potential World Cup role. His experience and recent display have earned praise, though his exact position in the pecking order remains uncertain. The final decision will rest with Tuchel as he finalises his plans for the competition.
