Nottingham Forest captain Morgan Gibbs-White has spoken openly about his shock omission from Thomas Tuchel’s England squad for the 2026 World Cup.
The 26-year-old, who enjoyed a superb Premier League season with 14 goals, admitted the snub was a major disappointment despite believing he had done enough to earn a place.
In his first public comments after the announcement, Gibbs-White made an awkward admission about the decision, revealing he felt he had “got on the wrong side of someone’s opinion.”
“I know myself that I have done more than enough to be in the squad,” Gibbs-White said. “I got on the wrong side of someone’s opinion. I have been on the wrong side of people’s opinions throughout my career, so I’m only going to bounce back.”
He added that he appreciated Tuchel personally calling him to break the news:
“I appreciated the call because he didn’t have to call me to tell me I wasn’t in the squad. So I appreciate that. But for me personally it’s obviously difficult.”
The former Wolves and Sheffield United man also admitted he went into the selection period expecting the worst to protect himself emotionally: “I kind of expected the worst in them sort of situations just so that when it does come, I’m not that disheartened.”
A Big Call by Tuchel
Pundits and fans alike have described the decision as surprising. BBC Radio Nottingham’s Colin Fray called it “a big call,” saying: “I’ve got to admit, I’m surprised. He couldn’t have done any more than what he’s done this season.”
Gibbs-White’s form made him one of the most consistent English performers in the Premier League, yet competition in attacking midfield proved too fierce.
The Nottingham Forest star is now expected to channel the disappointment into motivation ahead of the new Premier League season. Forest fans have strongly backed their captain, with many voicing frustration at the perceived snub.
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