England

World Cup 2026 Analysis

England National Football Team: Latest Updates and 2026 World Cup Outlook

As of early November 2025, England's national football team, under the management of Thomas Tuchel, recently concluded its October international fixtures for the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign. The squad for these matches, which included a friendly against Wales and a World Cup qualifier against Latvia, saw some notable selections and omissions.

Latest Team News and Squad Updates (October 2025):

For the October 2025 international break, Thomas Tuchel's England squad featured several established players alongside emerging talents. Key players like Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden were not included in the squad, with Bellingham reportedly managing his rhythm after returning from a shoulder injury. Jack Grealish also missed out on selection, continuing to be absent from Tuchel's squads. Bukayo Saka, however, made a return to the squad after an injury layoff, while Noni Madueke and Tino Livramento were unavailable due to injuries. Harry Kane was a major doubt for the friendly against Wales due to an ankle issue but was expected to be fit for the subsequent World Cup qualifier against Latvia. John Stones had also withdrawn from the squad in early September due to muscle issues.

The full squad for the October internationals included goalkeepers Jordan Pickford, Dean Henderson, and James Trafford. Defenders featured Dan Burn, Marc Guehi, Reece James, Ezri Konsa, Myles Lewis-Skelly, Jarell Quansah, Djed Spence, and John Stones. In midfield, Elliot Anderson, Morgan Gibbs-White, Jordan Henderson, Ruben Loftus-Cheek, Declan Rice, and Morgan Rogers were selected. The forward line comprised Jarrod Bowen, Eberechi Eze, Anthony Gordon, Harry Kane, Marcus Rashford, Bukayo Saka, and Ollie Watkins.

2026 World Cup Predictions:

Looking ahead to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, various football pundits and outlets have begun to predict England's potential squad and starting XI. Common themes emerge, with several players considered near-certainties if fit.

Goalkeepers: Jordan Pickford is widely expected to retain his position as England's number one, with Dean Henderson and James Trafford often predicted as his backups.

Defenders: The central defensive partnership is a subject of debate, but Marc Guehi is consistently tipped for a key role due to his composure and reliability. John Stones, if fully fit, is also expected to be a crucial figure and a leader in the backline. Other defenders frequently mentioned in predictions include Ezri Konsa, Jarrad Branthwaite, Levi Colwill, and Jarell Quansah. At right-back, there's strong competition between Trent Alexander-Arnold, Reece James, and Tino Livramento. For the left-back position, Myles Lewis-Skelly has emerged as a promising candidate, with Luke Shaw also a natural first choice when fit, but his injury record is a concern.

Midfielders: Declan Rice is a cornerstone of the midfield and is expected to be a key player, potentially serving as a future captain. Jude Bellingham is anticipated to be the "beating heart" of the team and one of the world's best midfielders by 2026. Adam Wharton is also seen as a strong contender to partner Rice in midfield. Other midfielders like Conor Gallagher, Kobbie Mainoo, Archie Gray, and Harvey Elliott are frequently mentioned as potential inclusions.

Forwards: Captain Harry Kane is expected to lead the line, continuing his prolific goal-scoring form. Bukayo Saka has solidified his place on the right flank, offering energy, creativity, and consistency. Cole Palmer and Eberechi Eze are often predicted to play significant attacking roles, with their flair and goal threat. Anthony Gordon is also considered due to his pace and improving form. Ollie Watkins and Ivan Toney are seen as strong alternatives to Kane up front. Phil Foden is also expected to be in the squad, with discussions around how best to integrate his talent into the starting XI.

Overall, England is seen as a strong contender for the 2026 World Cup, with a blend of experienced players and exciting young talent, all under the guidance of Thomas Tuchel. However, injuries and the intense competition for places will continue to shape the final squad selection and team dynamics.