Cole Palmer and Levi Colwill left out of England’s World Cup squad as Harry Maguire reacts to omission

• Chelsea pair Cole Palmer and Levi Colwill omitted from England’s 2026 World Cup squad
• Harry Maguire says he is “shocked and gutted” after learning he will miss the tournament
• Thomas Tuchel expected to include Kobbie Mainoo and Tino Livramento in final 26-man squad

Cole Palmer and Levi Colwill are set to miss out on England’s squad for the 2026 World Cup, while Harry Maguire has confirmed he will also not travel to the tournament.

England manager Thomas Tuchel is due to announce his final 26-man squad on Friday morning, but sources confirmed to ESPN that Chelsea duo Palmer and Colwill have both been left out.

Palmer’s omission is likely to be viewed as the biggest surprise.

Despite an injury-hit season with Chelsea FC and inconsistent form at club level, the 24-year-old has remained an important player for England in recent years and famously scored in the Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain.

Colwill’s absence comes after the defender only recently returned from a serious ACL injury. The centre-back made his comeback earlier this month in Chelsea’s defeat to Nottingham Forest FC and also featured in the FA Cup final loss to Manchester United FC.

There are also doubts surrounding the involvement of Phil Foden, while Luke Shaw and Fikayo Tomori could also miss out on selection.

However, Kobbie Mainoo is expected to be included after an impressive campaign for Manchester United, while Tino Livramento is also set to make the squad following his strong performances for Newcastle United FC.

Maguire publicly confirmed his omission on Instagram on Thursday evening and admitted he was stunned by the decision.

“I was confident I could of played a major part this summer for my country after the season I’ve had,” Maguire wrote.

“I’ve been left shocked and gutted by the decision.

“I’ve loved nothing more than putting that shirt on and representing my country over the years. I wish the players all the best this summer.”

The 33-year-old had been recalled by Tuchel for England’s March friendlies after producing some of his best form in recent years for Manchester United.

Maguire started the 1-1 draw against Uruguay and appeared as a substitute in the 1-0 defeat to Japan.

A key figure for England over the past decade, Maguire has won 66 caps and played in the Euro 2020 final at Wembley.

He missed Euro 2024 through injury and will now also miss what could have been his final World Cup campaign.

WRITTEN BY

Hailey

Hailey Russell is a football journalist and former Division 1 collegiate athlete in the United States, bringing a unique blend of elite playing experience and professional insight to her work. Currently competing at the professional level in Europe, Hailey combines first-hand knowledge of the modern game with sharp analysis across match reports, player development, and tactical breakdowns.

More articles by Hailey →