Allardyce Blasts Tuchel Over Maguire and Shaw World Cup Snub

Sam Allardyce has launched a pointed critique of Thomas Tuchel's World Cup squad selection, specifically taking issue with the England boss's omission of Manchester United's Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw.

With Tuchel having announced his 26-man party for this summer's tournament, there has been considerable debate around some of the Three Lions' chief's more contentious calls. The new England manager has shown a willingness to prioritise squad harmony alongside individual merit in constructing his group.

While Kobbie Mainoo earned his recall after an impressive second-half showing for United in 2025/26, Allardyce believes both Maguire and Shaw have been harshly overlooked.

Speaking on the No Tippy Tappy Football podcast, Allardyce made a spirited case for both players. On Shaw, he highlighted the defender's impressive availability record and versatility: "Shaw, for the first time in a while, has played 38 games for Manchester United, and he plays equally as good at centre-half as he does at left back. He has a huge amount of international experience at tournament football, and he's fit as a fiddle."

The former England manager suggested Shaw's credentials outweigh those of Tottenham's Djed Spence, citing both his proven pedigree and current physical condition. "Shaw has proven his fitness and is such an international talent in terms of what he's done before. I'd absolutely have him instead of Djed Spence."

Turning to Maguire, Allardyce outlined a compelling argument based on the centre-back's recent performances and technical qualities. He noted Maguire's role in stabilising United's defence since his return to regular football, describing him as instrumental in the club's improved defensive solidity.

Beyond his organisational qualities, Allardyce highlighted Maguire's distribution skills. "The other side to Maguire is that he is, without a shadow of doubt, one of the best passers of the ball as a centre-half in the country."

While acknowledging the perennial question mark over his pace, Allardyce drew a historical parallel to make his point. "There's always a question mark about his pace, but Bobby Moore was very slow and read the game exceptionally well. If you put him alongside someone quick like Marc Guehi, you've got a decent combination there."

Comparing Maguire favourably to Newcastle's Dan Burn, who has endured a difficult campaign on Tyneside, Allardyce concluded: "Based on who is in the squad ahead of him, Maguire is a better option. I'm not being unfair here, but I'd say he's a better choice than Dan Burn, who's had a difficult time at Newcastle this year."