Trent Alexander-Arnold misses Thomas Tuchel’s pre-FIFA World Cup audition as Maguire, Mainoo earn England recall

Although Jude Bellingham hasn't been in action since early February due to a hamstring injury, the midfielder has been included in Thomas Tuchel's roster.

Updated on: Mar 20, 2026, 19:32:18 IST

Written by Neelav Chakravarti

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Trent Alexander-Arnold missed out on a spot in Thomas Tuchel's England squad for the upcoming pre-FIFA World Cup friendlies against Uruguay and Japan. Meanwhile, Manchester United's Harry Maguire and Kobbie Mainoo have returned to the squad. The pair last played for the national team on September 24, but United's recent resurgence under Michael Carrick has shifted Tuchel's attention.

England manager Thomas Tuchel speaks to media during the squad announcement. (REUTERS)

"Manchester United have had an outstanding run since Michael Carrick took charge, and Harry and Kobbie have been a big part of that," said the German," said Tuchel.

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"This is the last camp before the trip to the US, so it's also my final chance to get to know new players, to learn about them, and see how they fit in.

"Harry isn't a new player in an England shirt, of course, but he's new to me in this camp."

Everton's James Garner got his maiden England call-up and Leeds striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin makes his return from international wilderness.

Although Jude Bellingham hasn't been in action since early February due to a hamstring injury, the Real Madrid midfielder has been included in the roster.

United's Luke Shaw has missed out, and Tuchel has instead called up Newcastle left-back Lewis Hall for the first time since he took over as England manager.

"I am happy and excited to be back," said Tuchel.

"This March camp is a unique one. We have already qualified, and our players are at a crucial stage in their club seasons.

"It's the last chance to impress and compete for a spot. That is why we have split the squad," he said.

England's squad -

Goalkeepers: Dean Henderson (Crystal Palace), Jordan Pickford (Everton), James Trafford (Manchester City), Aaron Ramsdale (Newcastle), Jason Steele (Brighton)

Defenders: Dan Burn (Newcastle), Marc Guehi (Manchester City), Lewis Hall (Newcastle), Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa), Tino Livramento (Newcastle), Harry Maguire (Manchester United), Nico O'Reilly (Manchester City), Jarell Quansah (Bayer Leverkusen/GER), Djed Spence (Tottenham), John Stones (Manchester City), Fikayo Tomori (AC Milan/ITA)

Midfielders: Elliot Anderson (Nottingham Forest), Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid/ESP), James Garner (Everton), Jordan Henderson (Brentford), Kobbie Mainoo (Manchester United), Declan Rice (Arsenal), Morgan Rogers (Aston Villa), Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace)

Forwards: Jarrod Bowen (West Ham), Dominic Calvert-Lewin (Leeds), Eberechi Eze (Arsenal), Phil Foden (Manchester City), Anthony Gordon (Newcastle), Harry Kane (Bayern Munich/GER), Noni Madueke (Arsenal), Cole Palmer (Chelsea), Marcus Rashford (Barcelona/ESP), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Dominic Solanke (Tottenham)

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Neelav Chakravarti
Neelav Chakravarti has been part of the digital sports team at Hindustan Times since 2022, where he covers a wide range of disciplines, including chess, cricket, football, and Olympic sports. Working in a fast-paced digital newsroom, he regularly handles live blogs, breaking updates, and trending stories, combining speed with clarity to keep readers informed in real time. Chess remains both a professional beat and a personal passion for Neelav, and he closely tracks major international tournaments, player narratives, and emerging talents. He is particularly fascinated by the patience, calculation, and strategic depth the game demands, often exploring the psychological side of competition in his writing. Beyond sports journalism, Neelav has a deep interest in visual storytelling and filmmaking, actively participating in film festivals and engaging with independent cinema. He is especially drawn to films that capture the subtleties of everyday life and human relationships, appreciating storytelling that balances realism with emotional depth. This creative interest complements his approach to sports coverage, where he enjoys highlighting the human stories behind performances and results. A history enthusiast by academic training, Neelav holds a bachelor’s degree in the subject and maintains a sustained interest in ancient and medieval Indian history, particularly in cultural and social transitions across eras. His curiosity about the past often shapes his perspective on contemporary narratives and long-form storytelling. When he isn’t tracking scores or developing storylines, Neelav enjoys spending time over the chessboard, relaxing with his cats, or listening to the Empire podcast by Anita Anand and William Dalrymple. He also enjoys reading long-form sports writing that explores the emotional and cultural layers of sport, while maintaining a quiet routine that balances reading, reflection, and occasional time with friends.Read More

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