World Cup: England’s shock squad and the politics of football – The Latest

England's shock World Cup squad announcement has ignited a national conversation about football, identity, and politics, as Thomas Tuchel's bold omissions of stars like Cole Palmer, Phil Foden, and Harry Maguire signal a radical departure from the past. The decision comes amid a historic week for British football, capped by Arsenal's first Premier League title in 22 years — a triumph celebrated not just as a sporting achievement, but as a powerful symbol of multiculturalism and belonging in a diverse London. Johnny Liu, Guardian sports columnist, argues that Arsenal’s success, driven by Mikel Arteta’s ruthless long-term vision and inclusive club culture, offers a blueprint for political leadership, especially for Keir Starmer’s Labour Party. Meanwhile, the upcoming World Cup in the US is overshadowed by geopolitical tensions, including FIFA’s ties to Trump and the tournament’s inconvenient timing, dampening global enthusiasm. Yet, the episode reveals how football remains a unifying force — from street parties in Nairobi to the Emirates Stadium — proving its enduring power as both cultural export and social glue.