Palmer and Foden left out of England's 2026 World Cup squad as Toney earns surprise call-up

Thomas Tuchel has named England's squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, leaving out Cole Palmer, Phil Foden, and Trent Alexander-Arnold in a series of high-profile omissions. Ivan Toney earned a surprise recall despite limited international football since joining Saudi side Al-Ahli in 2024. England open their campaign against Croatia in Dallas on 17 June.

Why were Cole Palmer and Phil Foden left out of the England World Cup squad?

Tuchel has pointed to form at club level as the basis for his selections, with both players enduring difficult seasons. Palmer and Foden played key roles in England's run to the Euro 2024 final, but poor club campaigns ultimately cost them their places. Tuchel said his selections were heavily shaped by who "delivered" and "set the standards" during camp windows from September onwards.

Who are the biggest omissions from England's World Cup squad?

Alexander-Arnold misses out alongside Palmer and Foden in what Tuchel himself described as "painfully difficult" calls. Harry Maguire, who expressed public shock at his exclusion, also failed to make the cut despite what he called a strong personal season. Luke Shaw, Morgan Gibbs-White, and Dominic Calvert-Lewin were also overlooked despite strong Premier League showings.

Tuchel explained his process directly: he personally called every player who had been involved in a camp to inform them of his decision. "I wanted to show at least the appreciation and the respect for what they have done," he said. The manager added that tough decisions bring "clarity" and "a certain edge" heading into a tournament.

Who is the surprise inclusion in England's 2026 World Cup squad?

Ivan Toney is the selection generating the most debate after being named in the squad despite playing just two minutes of international football since his 2024 move to Saudi Arabia. The Al-Ahli striker made an impact off the bench at Euro 2024 and has clearly retained Tuchel's confidence. Jordan Henderson also returns at the expense of Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton.

John Stones has been included despite an injury-hit season that severely limited his involvement at Manchester City. Captain Harry Kane said he was "extremely proud" to be heading to another World Cup, adding that these moments should "never be taken for granted." Veteran midfielder Henderson's inclusion over the younger Wharton signals Tuchel's preference for experience and trust over raw form.

What is England's full squad for the 2026 World Cup?

Goalkeepers : Jordan Pickford (Everton), Dean Henderson (Crystal Palace), James Trafford (Manchester City)

Defenders: Reece James (Chelsea), Tino Livramento (Newcastle), Dan Burn (Newcastle), Marc Guehi, John Stones, Nico O'Reilly (all Manchester City), Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa), Jarell Quansah (Bayer Leverkusen), Djed Spence (Tottenham)

Midfielders: Declan Rice (Arsenal), Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest), Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid), Jordan Henderson (Brentford), Kobbie Mainoo (Manchester United), Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa), Eberechi Eze (Arsenal)

Forwards : Harry Kane (Bayern Munich), Ivan Toney (Al-Ahli), Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Noni Madueke (Arsenal), Marcus Rashford (Barcelona), Anthony Gordon (Newcastle)

When do England play at the 2026 World Cup?

England begin their World Cup campaign against Croatia in Dallas on 17 June. They then face Ghana on 23 June, before rounding off the group stage against Panama on 27 June. All three group matches are set to be played in the United States, with the tournament co-hosted across the USA, Mexico, and Canada.