Maguire and Mainu Recalled to England Squad for Upcoming Friendlies
Harry Maguire of Manchester United and Kobie Mainou have been called back to the England squad as manager Thomas Tuchel announces a substantial 35-man roster for friendly matches against Uruguay and Japan at Wembley. Notably, Trent Alexander-Arnold has been excluded from the squad.
Maguire and Mainou have not previously been selected by Tuchel. Their last appearance for England dates back to September 2024, during a 2-0 victory over the Republic of Ireland under caretaker manager Lee Carsley. Additionally, Newcastle’s Lewis Hall has been included, and Everton midfielder James Garner is poised for his debut call-up. Tuchel’s revised selection features ten more players than in November, as he seeks to evaluate a broader talent pool in the last international break before finalizing his World Cup roster in May.
Despite his undeniable talent, Alexander-Arnold, along with Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins, has been left out of the squad. Leeds forward Dominic Calvert-Lewin makes his return for the first time since September 2021, joining Tottenham’s Dominic Solanke. Jude Bellingham is also part of the lineup, although he has not played since February 1 due to a hamstring injury.
Tuchel commented on the unique nature of the March camp, emphasizing its importance. He stated that with the team having qualified, they would be utilizing this opportunity for two friendlies. Players are currently facing significant pressure in club football, battling for titles and avoiding relegation. This camp represents a crucial moment for players to showcase their skills as they aim to secure their spots in the World Cup squad.
To better manage the large group, Tuchel outlined his plan to divide the squad into two segments. The first phase will consist of 19 outfield players and four goalkeepers, who will train leading up to the Uruguay match. This approach allows those players a chance to impress and secure competitive minutes before the final selections are made for the Japan game.
Tuchel shared that 11 players would join the later camp phase, which includes Dean Henderson, Dan Byrne, Mark Guehi, Ezri Konsa, Nico O’Reilly, Elliot Anderson, Declan Rice, Morgan Rogers, Anthony Gordon, Harry Kane, and Bukayo Saka. He noted that many of these individuals have accumulated substantial playing time, further reflecting their readiness and potential impact during the camp.
The inclusion of Maguire and Mainou indicates a recognition of Manchester United’s resurgence since the departure of Ruben Amorim in January. Under Michael Carrick’s management, the team has won seven of their last nine matches, with both players making key contributions. Tuchel acknowledged the team’s achievements, highlighting the critical role played by Maguire and Mainou during this successful period.
While Tuchel expressed his admiration for Alexander-Arnold, he stood firm on his decision to prioritize players currently in camp who can effectively compete for positions. He elaborated on the need for emerging talents to prove themselves while contextualizing his knowledge of Watkins, who he has observed closely in previous tournaments and qualifying matches.
As the England squad prepares for the friendlies, Tuchel has also made adjustments to previous selections. Chelsea’s Trevor Chalobah and Bournemouth’s Alex Scott were included in the last training camp but have not been called this time. Meanwhile, Brighton’s 35-year-old goalkeeper Jason Steele has been chosen with an eye toward participating as a training goalkeeper for the World Cup this summer.
Squad for Friendly Matches Against Uruguay and Japan
Goalkeepers: Dean Henderson (Crystal Palace), Jordan Pickford (Everton), James Trafford (Manchester City), Aaron Ramsdale (Newcastle United), Jason Steele (Brighton & Hove Albion)
Defenders: Dan Byrne (Newcastle United), Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace), Lewis Hall (Newcastle United), Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa), Tino Libramento (Newcastle United), Harry Maguire (Manchester United), Nico O’Reilly (Manchester City), Jarrell Quansah (Bayer Leverkusen), Jed Spence (Tottenham Hotspur), John Stones (Manchester City), Fikayo Tomori (AC Milan)
Midfielders: Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest), Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid), James Garner (Everton), Jordan Henderson (Brentford), Koby Mainou (Manchester United), Declan Rice (Arsenal), Morgan Rodgers (Aston Villa), Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace)
Forwards: Jarrod Bowen (West Ham United), Dominic Calvert-Lewin (Leeds United), Ebelesi Eze (Arsenal), Phil Foden (Manchester City), Anthony Gordon (Newcastle United), Harry Kane (Bayern Munich), Noni Madueke (Arsenal), Cole Palmer (Chelsea), Marcus Rashford (Loan from Barcelona, Manchester United), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Dominic Solanke (Tottenham Hotspur)
