England’s journey to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico is gathering momentum after their convincing victory over Latvia confirmed qualification. With the team now gearing up for the tournament, head coach Thomas Tuchel faces the complex task of finalizing his squad, balancing proven performers with players who have something to prove.
The competition for places in England’s squad is intense, and while some players have already cemented their positions, others must continue to impress Tuchel if they are to make the cut for football’s biggest stage. Let’s break down the key players who need to step up ahead of the World Cup.
Jude Bellingham: Talent Under Scrutiny
Jude Bellingham’s exclusion from Tuchel’s most recent squad caused widespread surprise, highlighting the fine margins even for the brightest stars. Although a mainstay at Real Madrid and arguably England’s biggest global football name, Bellingham must demonstrate more than individual brilliance.
Tuchel’s philosophy emphasizes team cohesion and discipline, making it clear that no player enjoys an automatic route into the squad. Bellingham’s inclusion in the next England squad for the upcoming friendlies against Serbia and Albania will be a key indicator of his standing.
The message is clear: Bellingham’s immense talent alone is not enough. He must prove that he embodies the team spirit Tuchel values, aligning his creativity with the collective goals of England’s World Cup campaign.
Cole Palmer: Injury and Opportunity
Cole Palmer’s international career has been marked by flashes of brilliance, including his memorable equalizer against Spain in the Euro 2024 final. Yet, consistency has eluded the 23-year-old Chelsea star.
Currently sidelined with a groin injury, Palmer faces a challenge: to return to peak form and deliver eye-catching performances in a highly competitive midfield. With Morgan Rogers occupying the number 10 role and other wide players such as Bukayo Saka and Noni Madueke vying for positions, Palmer must excel to force his way back into contention for a World Cup berth.
Phil Foden: Reclaiming His Place
Manchester City’s Phil Foden, 25, is another standout player omitted from recent squads, alongside Bellingham. Known for his brilliance at Euro 2024, Foden has struggled to find a natural fit in Tuchel’s system, often playing out wide rather than in his preferred central role.
The challenge for Foden is consistency. While his talent is undeniable, he must perform at a high level throughout the Premier League season and international friendlies to reestablish himself as a key figure in England’s World Cup plans.
Trent Alexander-Arnold: A Tough Road Ahead
Trent Alexander-Arnold’s World Cup hopes appear uncertain following injuries and limited opportunities. Tuchel has expressed concerns about his defensive responsibilities, favoring players like Reece James at right-back.
Unless Alexander-Arnold can secure a consistent run of form with Real Madrid, his place in England’s squad may depend on necessity rather than certainty, making this summer a pivotal period for the Liverpool-born star.
Jack Grealish: Consistency is Key
Jack Grealish has enjoyed a renaissance at Everton, but Tuchel has opted against recalling him for the latest squad. Despite the fanfare, Grealish must prove he can maintain top-level performances over an extended period. Only by consistently excelling over a full Premier League season can the 30-year-old midfielder stake a claim for World Cup inclusion.
Adam Wharton: Patience and Perseverance
Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton has impressed domestically but remains on the fringes of Tuchel’s squad. With only a brief appearance under Southgate during Euro 2024, Wharton must continue demonstrating his quality at club level to earn a full chance on the international stage.
Tuchel has reassured the player that he is under consideration, but performance, not potential, will ultimately determine Wharton’s path to the World Cup.
Marcus Rashford: Redemption in Barcelona
Marcus Rashford’s move to Barcelona represents a fresh start, but the forward still has to solidify his role under Tuchel. Known for his flashes of brilliance, Rashford must now deliver consistent top-tier performances both for club and country. Tuchel’s message is clear: talent alone is insufficient; results matter, especially with a World Cup on the horizon.
Myles Lewis-Skelly: Young Talent in the Spotlight
Arsenal’s Myles Lewis-Skelly burst onto the scene by scoring on his England debut, yet he faces a crucial test in securing regular minutes at club level. With Riccardo Calafiori challenging him at Arsenal, Lewis-Skelly must prove his readiness to perform consistently to retain Tuchel’s confidence for the World Cup squad.
Jordan Henderson: Veteran Influence vs. Playing Time
At 36, Jordan Henderson remains a key figure in Tuchel’s squad due to his leadership and experience. However, Tuchel’s approach demands on-pitch contributions, not just presence. Henderson must continue delivering high-quality performances with Brentford to justify his inclusion on football’s biggest stage.
Morgan Gibbs-White: Talent in a Crowded Midfield
Nottingham Forest’s Morgan Gibbs-White has impressed domestically and internationally but faces fierce competition in midfield from players like Bellingham, Palmer, and Foden. His challenge is to maintain form and secure regular playing time to stay in contention for a World Cup role.
Goalkeeping Battle: James Trafford’s Challenge
With Jordan Pickford firmly established as England’s number one and Dean Henderson as backup, James Trafford’s path to international recognition has been complicated by Gianluigi Donnarumma’s arrival at Manchester City. Trafford must secure regular club football to convince Tuchel of his readiness for top-level international competition.
Looking Ahead: England’s Squad Dynamics
As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup continues, Tuchel must balance established stars, emerging talent, and team cohesion. Players like Bellingham, Palmer, Foden, and Rashford face the dual challenge of impressing at club level while fitting seamlessly into a system designed for collective success.
With international football evolving rapidly and the World Cup on the horizon, England’s squad selection promises to be both exciting and fiercely competitive. Every player must prove their worth, ensuring only the most prepared and adaptable stars make the journey to North America next summer.
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