England manager Thomas Tuchel has named his latest squad for the upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures, with several players from the recent World Cup campaign omitted. Among the 26 players who featured in the summer tournament, nine—Dan Burn, Dean Henderson, Djed Spence, Ivan Toney, John Stones, Jordan Henderson, Noni Madueke, Ollie Watkins, and Reece James—were left out for various reasons.

Despite not featuring on the pitch during England’s World Cup matches in North America, midfielder Kobbie Mainoo has retained his place in the squad. Mainoo, a Manchester United academy product, has been highlighted by both club and national team management for his positive contributions and professionalism.

Manchester United recently faced setbacks, including a 12-man sending off early in the Manchester derby, yet Mainoo was regarded as a bright spot in an otherwise challenging match. Manchester United interim manager Michael Carrick praised the young player as “a real joy to have” and “a fantastic player,” notes that reflect Mainoo’s growing stature within the team. This season, Mainoo's performances have continued to attract attention as he earns more regular playing time.

England head coach Tuchel also commended Mainoo’s behavior throughout the World Cup period, stating, “He didn’t put a foot wrong during the World Cup. He was class in behaviour on the training pitch.” The coach’s remarks underline the importance of professionalism and attitude in maintaining a role within the national squad.

Among those recalled to the squad are players who narrowly missed out on the World Cup selection, including Alex Scott, Cole Palmer, Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Jarrad Branthwaite, Jason Steele, Lewis Hall, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Rio Nguoma, and Trent Alexander-Arnold. Notably absent remains Manchester City midfielder Phil Foden, who has not been called up for six months. Foden’s exclusion follows a straight red card he received early in the recent Manchester derby, which may have influenced Tuchel’s decision.

The upcoming Nations League matches represent the next phase of England’s international campaign under Tuchel, with the coach balancing squad rotation, player development, and team performance as he looks to build on the team’s World Cup experience.