James Maddison Dropped from England’s Euro 2024 Line-Up – Who Will Make the Cut?

With only eight days remaining until Euro 2024 kicks off in Germany, Gareth Southgate, England's manager, raised eyebrows by dropping Tottenham Hotspur’s midfielder, James Maddison, from the list for the upcoming games.

The decision has sparked debate among fans and commentators, as Maddison has had a strong run with Tottenham in the Premier League. Joining Spurs from Leicester City with a five-year contract in June 2023, he's appeared 30 times this season despite an ankle injury, scoring four goals and delivering nine assists, becoming crucial due to his vision and playmaking talent.

Maddison, who has represented England seven times since his debut on November 14, 2019, replacing Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain in a triumphant 7-0 Euro 2020 qualifier against Montenegro, was notably absent for three years. He was recalled for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar but didn’t play a single minute. In 2023, he kick-started his senior appearances against Ukraine in a Euro 2024 qualifier. Yet, being excluded from the preliminary squad means he won't feature in another significant event for his nation.

Taking to Twitter, Maddison shared his disappointment and reflection on missing the Euros.

“Devastated doesn’t quite describe it. I put in the hard yards in training this week but I must admit my performance at Spurs post-injury didn't meet my standards, which left Gareth with a tough call. Nonetheless, I believed I'd make the 26-man squad given my unique contributions & regular presence during the Euro 2024 qualifiers. However, the choice has been made and I must respect it. I'll return, I'm confident in that. My best wishes to the lads representing us in Germany; remarkable bunch whom I consider close friends. Truly hoping for glory to come home.”

Euro 2024 Squad Deadline

Gareth Southgate is tasked with narrowing down his extended 33-player list to a final 26 before the June 7 cutoff, with James Maddison and Curtis Jones from Liverpool being the first names dropped.

The competition is fierce among midfield hopefuls aiming for a spot in the England camp. Established talents like Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden are almost certain to start, whereas Declan Rice is another irreplaceable defensive asset. Emerging stars such as Cole Palmer and Eberechi Eze have also been recognized for their standout seasons with Chelsea and Crystal Palace, further complicating Maddison's bid for inclusion.

Will Maddison Be Missed At Euro 2024?

Many were surprised to hear that Maddison had exited the England setup on Thursday. His creativity and knack for breaking down defenses could have been invaluable, but Southgate seems set on relying on Bellingham and Foden to spearhead the midfield attack.

Coaches often face scrutiny when their decisions deviate from public expectations. Still, there is a layer of support for Southgate’s roster choices thus far. The decision to bring Palmer and Eze aboard hints at a strategic vision for the future, preparing these young stars for the challenges of the 2026 World Cup and beyond.

Which Players Won’t Make the Final Cut for England’s Euro 2024 Squad?

With Maddison and Curtis Jones already departing from the England camp, five more names must be trimmed from the preliminary list by the end of tomorrow. Jarell Quansah of Liverpool, a center-back, appears likely to follow suit, leaving three others in suspense.

Fitness concerns loom over Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw, and Lewis Dunk, who must demonstrate readiness before the deadline. Although Harry Kane is a near-certainty for a starting role, the presence of several other forwards makes further cuts possible. Ivan Toney, playing for Brentford, returned strongly earlier this year, scoring in four of his initial five games, yet hasn’t found the net in Premier League play since February. His spot could be contentious against Ollie Watkins, with Friday’s performance against Iceland potentially pivotal.

In addition to a goalkeeper, possibly James Trafford, Marc Guéhi, and Jarrod Bowen, who are competing against players like Bukayo Saka and Cole Palmer, might also face exclusion come Saturday.

When Is The Euro 2024 Squad Deadline?

All participating nations in Euro 2024 must finalize their 26-player rosters by Friday, June 7 at midnight.

With England squaring off against Iceland on Friday night, Gareth Southgate has hefty decisions to make before heading to Germany the following week.

Who Will England Play At Euro 2024?

England’s Euro 2024 campaign will kick off against Serbia on Saturday, June 16, followed by games against Denmark and Slovenia. WhichBookie We'll offer in-depth previews and predictions for Euro 2024 matches as they unfold.