This article is part of the 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, collaborating with leading media outlets from the 48 qualified nations. Daily previews from three countries will be available leading up to the tournament’s kickoff on June 11.
Qualifying Success
England breezed through the qualification process, achieving a perfect record with eight victories, scoring 22 goals and conceding none. However, the lack of tough competition raises questions about how the Three Lions will perform against elite teams in knockout stages.
Enter Thomas Tuchel. Appointed following a string of near misses under Gareth Southgate, his mission is to lead England to their first major trophy in 60 years. At his introduction in October 2024, Tuchel expressed his ambition, stating, “to try and put a second star on the shirt” Yet, he remains realistic about their chances this summer, acknowledging, “We can’t be one of the favourites as we haven’t won it for so long,”
Building the Team
The journey under Tuchel has not been without challenges. Mixed results, including lackluster performances against Andorra and Senegal last summer, prompted criticism. Nonetheless, the team has shown promise in moments of unity. Tuchel emphasizes cultivating a brotherhood within the squad, aiming to establish a positive culture. His squad choices reflect a clear vision, with bold omissions including Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, while selecting Ivan Toney.
England is likely to adopt a 4-2-3-1 formation. The squad boasts formidable attacking talents, a plethora of No 10s, and Declan Rice, a top midfielder globally. Nevertheless, concerns linger regarding defensive options and fitness issues among key players. Managing the relationship with Jude Bellingham will also be crucial; if the Real Madrid star is at his best, he could be the key to England’s success.
In warm-up matches against New Zealand and Costa Rica in Florida, Bellingham’s performance was pivotal as England secured comfortable victories. “There are proven winners within the tournament. These are the favourites.” Tuchel remarked after the win against Costa Rica.
The Head Coach
While some may find it unusual to have a German managing England, Thomas Tuchel is genuinely an anglophile who understands the culture and is regarded as one of the best managers worldwide. With league titles from Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain, as well as a Champions League victory with Chelsea in 2021, he has proven expertise in knockout football. However, this marks his first venture into international management. Southgate excelled at creating a conducive environment during tournaments; the challenge for Tuchel, who recently extended his contract until Euro 2028, is ensuring the shirt does not weigh heavily on the players.
Star Player
Reflecting on Harry Kane’s England future, doubts arose when he was substituted during the Euro 2024 final loss to Spain. The striker struggled throughout the tournament, appearing less than fully fit, yet he remains a vital source of inspiration and leadership for the team. England’s performance heavily relies on their captain and all-time leading goal scorer. Tuchel needs Kane in peak condition, as the Bayern Munich forward has had yet another impressive season, and a standout World Cup could position him as a contender for the Ballon d’Or.
Player to Watch
While England has numerous No 10s, Morgan Rogers has particularly impressed under Tuchel’s guidance. The Aston Villa forward showcased his potential with a breakout performance during the 5-0 win against Serbia in Belgrade last September. Known for his contributions on and off the ball, Tuchel appreciates Rogers’ counter-pressing abilities. As a passionate footballer, the 23-year-old believes he is ready to compete with established talents like Bellingham and Eberechi Eze. “This will hopefully be an amazing experience,” he stated.
Unsung Hero
Who partners Declan Rice in midfield has long been a point of contention. While Southgate struggled to find a suitable candidate following Kalvin Phillips’ decline, Tuchel has identified Elliot Anderson as a standout. The Nottingham Forest midfielder has made significant progress since his senior debut last September. Just before the tournament, Forest rejected a £122m offer from Manchester City, and Anderson is now a guaranteed starter for England. “The way I was as a kid, I still think I’m that person now, wanting to show my freedom in the way I play,” Tuchel praised. “He is one of the best midfielders in the Premier League,”
Projected Starting Lineup
Fan Expectations
Fans worldwide should prepare for the irony behind the phrase “That’s why he is with us and starting for us. He is a very complete and mobile midfielder.” which reflects years of unfulfilled hopes. While England typically enjoys strong support at tournaments, discontent has arisen regarding ticket prices. The Football Supporters’ Association labeled ticket costs as “scandalous,” and reports in February indicated that England might not sell out their official allocation should they reach the final. Supporters’ groups have criticized this perceived greed, dubbing it the rip-off World Cup.
Political Climate
With the royal family recently visiting, one might imagine President Trump singing God Save The King before England’s matches. Despite the current frosty relations between Trump and the UK government, it’s unlikely the Football Association will engage in political discourse, as they remained neutral during the previous World Cup in Qatar. The emphasis will likely focus on football, with the FA not vocally defending fans against ticket pricing issues.
