England's 35-Man Squad for Pre-World Cup Friendlies Features Harry Maguire's Comeback
Synopsis
England's head coach Thomas Tuchel has announced a powerful 35-man squad for upcoming friendlies, featuring the remarkable return of Harry Maguire. As the team prepares for the World Cup, this lineup showcases both experienced players and emerging talents.
Key Takeaways
Harry Maguire makes a significant return to the England squad.
England will play friendly matches against Uruguay and Japan.
The squad combines experienced players with emerging talents like Kobbie Mainoo.
England aims to break a 60-year World Cup title drought.
Matches will take place at Wembley Stadium.
London, March 20 (NationPress) England's head coach, Thomas Tuchel, has unveiled a 35-man squad for the upcoming friendly matches against Uruguay and Japan this Friday, marking the significant return of experienced defender Harry Maguire to the national team.
Maguire, with 64 caps for England, returns after being absent from selections since Tuchel took over on January 1, 2025. The Manchester United centre-back has demonstrated impressive form at the club level this season, playing a crucial role in his team's improved domestic performance and their push for a spot in the UEFA Champions League.
The squad also showcases rising star Kobbie Mainoo, as England gears up for the upcoming World Cup. Promising midfielder Jude Bellingham is included despite a recent injury, while Trent Alexander-Arnold is absent.
Tuchel explained his rationale for the expanded squad, stating, “We opted to divide the group almost into two camps, allowing us to bring in players we haven’t seen much of, to widen our options and enhance the competition for spots on the flight to the US.”
“From Friday and Saturday, a group of ten or eleven players will join the camp after a rest, and we will subsequently mix them with the others for the match against Japan,” he added.
Both matches will be held at Wembley Stadium later this month, followed by friendly matches against New Zealand and Costa Rica in June. England is set to launch its FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign against Croatia on June 17 in Dallas.
Last lifted in 1966 on home soil by defeating West Germany 4-2 at Wembley, England aims to break a 60-year title drought in the upcoming tournament hosted by the USA and Mexico.
Squad:
Goalkeepers: Henderson, Pickford, Ramsdale, Steele, Trafford.
Defenders: Burn, Guehi, Hall, Konsa, Livramento, Maguire, O'Reilly, Quansah, Spence, Stones, Tomori.
Midfielders: Anderson, Bellingham, Garner, Henderson, Mainoo, Palmer, Rice, Rogers, Wharton.
Forwards: Bowen, Calvert-Lewin, Eze, Foden, Gordon, Kane, Madueke, Rashford, Saka, Solanke.
Point of View
It’s vital to highlight England's strategic preparations ahead of the World Cup. The inclusion of Harry Maguire, along with rising talents, illustrates a balanced approach aimed at enhancing the team's competitive edge. With significant matches on the horizon, this squad aims to revitalize England's football ambitions.
NationPress
11 Aug 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the head coach of the England national team?
The head coach of the England national team is Thomas Tuchel.
Which teams will England face in upcoming friendlies?
England will face Uruguay and Japan in upcoming friendlies.
Why was Harry Maguire absent from previous squad selections?
Harry Maguire was absent from previous squad selections due to the change in management when Thomas Tuchel took charge.
When does England begin its World Cup 2026 campaign?
England will start its World Cup 2026 campaign against Croatia on June 17 in Dallas.
What is the significance of the upcoming friendlies for England?
The upcoming friendlies are crucial for England to finalize their squad and strategies ahead of the World Cup.
