England's German head coach Thomas Tuchel leads a training session at St George's Park in Burton-upon-Trent, central England, on October 8, 2025, ahead of their international friendly football match against Wales. (Photo by Oli SCARFF / AFP) / NOT FOR MARKETING OR ADVERTISING USE / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE
Thomas Tuchel has revealed Harry Maguire would only be his fifth-choice centre-back in a major blow to the England defender’s hopes of going to the World Cup.
Tuchel handed Maguire his first England start for 18 months in Friday’s 1-1 friendly draw against Uruguay.
In his first appearance under Tuchel, the Manchester United star delivered a solid display at Wembley.
Maguire has appeared in three major tournaments with England and has 65 caps.
But while the German acknowledged Maguire’s ability, he hinted the 33-year-old was behind Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi, John Stones and Trevoh Chalobah in his pecking order.
“I got exactly what I thought, solid, solid central defender play. That’s what he does. Very good on the ball, very calm, strong in the air and is the weapon for set-pieces,” Tuchel said on Friday in his post-match analysis after the friendly game.
“I haven’t changed my mind but I see other players I like to start for us, I see other players ahead with a different profile.
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