Players await World Cup squad selection with hope and dread; Micah Richards and Martin Keown recall the pain of omission, while Theo Walcott experienced the shock of a call-up.

With the 2026 World Cup kickoff on June 11, 48 nations finalize 26-man squads by June 1 deadline. England, Brazil, Germany among those submitting lists. Expanded tournament adds pressure.

England boss Thomas Tuchel shocks by omitting stars Maguire, Palmer, Foden, Alexander-Arnold from his 2026 World Cup squad, opting for 'specialists' to build a 'brotherhood'.

Tuchel announces England World Cup squad with shock call-up for Ivan Toney and drops Alexander-Arnold for Spence.

Thomas Tuchel names 26-man England squad for 2026 World Cup, omitting Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Harry Maguire.

Thomas Tuchel names 26-man England squad for 2026 World Cup, recalling Ivan Toney while omitting Cole Palmer, Phil Foden, and Trent Alexander-Arnold. The ruthless selection prioritizes system fit over reputation.

England's 26-man squad announcement sparks debate over Tuchel's starting XI. The choice between back three or back four and the untouchable core of Saka, Bellingham, and Kane dominate discussions.