Tuchel Names Preferred Defenders, Maguire Fifth Choice

England manager Thomas Tuchel has reportedly ranked Harry Maguire as only his fifth-choice center-back for the national team. The German tactician placed Ezri Konsa, Marc Guéhi, John Stones, and Trevoh Chalobah ahead of the Manchester United defender in his pecking order. Maguire made his first appearance under Tuchel during Friday's 1-1 draw with Uruguay at Wembley. This statement could be interpreted as a significant blow to Harry Maguire's chances of participating in the World Cup, with the manager indicating the defender remains only his fifth option for the heart of the defense.

The German specialist acknowledged the Manchester United defender's strengths but stated that he remains behind Ezri Konsa, Marc Guéhi, John Stones, and the injured Trevoh Chalobah in his preferences.

"I got exactly what I expected – a solid, stable performance in the center of defense," Tuchel said. "That's what he does. He's very good on the ball, very calm, strong in the air, and a weapon from set pieces. My opinion hasn't changed, but I see other players I prefer to start for us. I see other players ahead of him with a different profile," he added.

"I see Ezri Konsa ahead of him, and Marc Guéhi too. It's no secret. I believe Trevoh Chalobah is slightly ahead of him in terms of mobility. John Stones as well, but he's had injuries, so he needed to be at the camp. I had to meet him personally to see how he integrated with the group. Now it will be interesting to see how he fits in. As I said, he has an advantage, of course, he can be extremely important in a tournament, in a knockout match, when defending a lead or chasing a result with crosses, long throw-ins, and set pieces."

When asked if Maguire would make the squad if he had to announce it now, Tuchel replied: "If, if, if. We don't have to announce the squad tomorrow. He played a good game. He did what he does for Manchester United. He did it immediately. I am very happy with him. Honestly, my opinion hasn't changed. I got everything I expected from him. If I had to announce it tomorrow, we have many injuries, so he might be in it. Who else would be there in the center of defense?"