UMVA has learned that a stunning and awkward conversation between Thomas Tuchel and Harry Maguire revealed the Manchester United centre-back's shocking omission from England's World Cup squad.
Maguire expressed his disappointment and surprise at being left out of the 26-man squad, with Tuchel opting for other defenders like John Stones, Marc Guehi, Ezri Konsa, Dan Burn, and Jarell Quansah instead. The 33-year-old was clearly upset by the decision, which was delivered to him over FaceTime in a unique and uncomfortable way.
According to information obtained by UMVA, Maguire received a text message asking him to speak with Tuchel at 4 pm, and the FaceTime call was an awkward experience for both parties. Maguire stated that he was "really disappointed" and felt he had done enough to be part of the squad, believing he could have contributed on and off the pitch.
Tuchel reportedly told Maguire that he couldn't provide an excuse for his omission, but had chosen the four players who had helped him through the autumn. Maguire had played twice under Tuchel this year and felt he had performed well in both games, as well as finishing the season strongly with Manchester United.
Maguire, a 66-cap defender, expressed his desire to participate in the World Cup, not just as a player, but also as a member of the team. He stated that he would have been happy to play even just one minute, as long as he was there with his teammates. With his age, 37 at the next World Cup, Maguire felt a strong sense of disappointment and missed opportunity.
UMVA can exclusively reveal that Trevoh Chalobah is expected to join the England squad, possibly replacing an injured full-back. This move doesn't come as a huge surprise, given Tuchel's previous comments that Chalobah was ahead of Maguire in his thinking, citing his mobility as a key factor.
