Revisiting England’s predicted 2026 World Cup XI — who actually made it?

October 17, 2025 Aksel Kryhlmand

Back in 2021, FourFourTwo looked ahead to what England’s starting lineup might look like at the 2026 World Cup. Fast forward four years, and some predictions have held up surprisingly well, while others now look completely off the mark. Here’s how their forecast compares to the reality of 2025.

Dean Henderson

The Crystal Palace goalkeeper has grown into a dependable figure and remains England’s clear number two. However, Jordan Pickford still commands the number one shirt and shows no sign of stepping aside. Henderson is almost certain to travel to North America next summer, but starting a World Cup game still feels out of reach.

Trent Alexander-Arnold

Once hailed as the future of England’s right flank, Alexander-Arnold faces a tougher battle than expected. With Reece James and Tino Livramento both pushing hard, his place in the XI is no guarantee. A recent injury and limited club minutes haven’t helped his case, though his quality remains undeniable when fully fit.

Ben White

Four years ago, Ben White seemed destined to be a regular for England. But after his fallout with the coaching staff in 2022 and reduced minutes at Arsenal, his international career has stalled. Unless something changes drastically, it’s hard to see Thomas Tuchel calling him up for the World Cup squad.

Marc Guehi

Here’s one prediction that aged beautifully. Marc Guehi has quietly developed into a composed, reliable centre-back, exactly as FourFourTwo foresaw. Now a leader for Crystal Palace, he looks almost certain to play a key role for England at the 2026 World Cup.

Ryan Sessegnon

Once tipped as a future star after his breakthrough at Fulham, Sessegnon’s progress has been slowed by injuries and inconsistent form. While he’s still young enough to rebuild his career, it’s unlikely he’ll be in contention for the England squad next summer, let alone the starting lineup.

Declan Rice

No surprises here. Rice has cemented himself as one of England’s most important players. His composure, tactical awareness, and leadership make him a guaranteed starter. It’s hard to imagine an England midfield without him now.

Jude Bellingham

This one was obvious from the start. Even in 2021, everyone knew Bellingham was special, and he’s since blossomed into one of the best midfielders in the world. With 44 England caps already under his belt, he’ll be the beating heart of the team in 2026.

Bukayo Saka

Another correct call. FourFourTwo’s choice of Saka over Jadon Sancho or Callum Hudson-Odoi now looks spot on. The Arsenal winger has made the right flank his own, combining energy, creativity, and consistency. He’s now one of the first names on Tuchel’s teamsheet.

Phil Foden

Foden remains a divisive figure in the England setup. His club form has been brilliant, but translating that into consistent performances for the national team has been less straightforward. Still, his technical ability makes him a near-certain inclusion in the World Cup squad, even if his role in the starting XI remains up for debate.

Mason Mount

At one point, Mason Mount was seen as a generational talent. However, injuries and uneven spells at club level have slowed his momentum. Despite some recent improvement, the competition in England’s midfield and attack means he’s unlikely to be part of the main squad next summer.

Mason Greenwood

This prediction aged the worst. FourFourTwo expected Greenwood to overtake Harry Kane by 2026, but that couldn’t be further from reality. Greenwood hasn’t featured for England since early 2022, while Kane continues to score at a historic rate. As long as he stays fit, England’s captain will still lead the line in North America.