England players likely to make the 2026 World Cup squad

October 24, 2025 Oliver Obel

After sealing qualification with a dominant 5-0 win over Latvia, Thomas Tuchel’s England can now start focusing on the tournament ahead. With several key players already nailed down for a spot on the plane, the Three Lions look set for another strong showing on the global stage. Here are the 13 players who are all but certain to represent England in the United States next summer.

13. Morgan Rogers

Morgan Rogers has made an impressive rise under Thomas Tuchel, emerging as one of England’s most intriguing attacking options. The Aston Villa midfielder has started in the No.10 role in Tuchel’s last three squads, contributing both a goal and an assist. His ability to find pockets of space and link play between midfield and attack has stood out. Although competition is fierce, Rogers’ recent form and trust from the manager make him a near-certainty for the World Cup squad.

12. Ollie Watkins

Ollie Watkins offers a different dimension to England’s attack, with his relentless running and sharp movement behind defenders. The Aston Villa striker has become the clear deputy to Harry Kane, providing energy and pressing that can unsettle even the most composed backlines. Watkins has developed a knack for making an impact off the bench, which could prove invaluable in tournament football. Unless another forward emerges before the summer, his ticket to the USA is all but confirmed.

11. Eberechi Eze

Eberechi Eze’s move to Arsenal has elevated his game and his international prospects. The creative midfielder has flourished under Tuchel, regularly featuring in England’s recent squads and offering flair and versatility in advanced positions. Eze’s confidence on the ball and ability to glide past defenders make him a unique weapon for the Three Lions. With consistent performances in both the Premier League and Europe, his World Cup spot feels well-deserved.

10. Elliot Anderson

Still relatively new to the England setup, Elliot Anderson has quickly earned Tuchel’s trust. The Nottingham Forest midfielder has featured in each of England’s last four matches, forming a solid partnership with Declan Rice. His composure, work rate, and tactical awareness have made him stand out in a crowded midfield pool. At just 22, Anderson represents the future of England’s engine room and is almost certain to be part of Tuchel’s plans next summer.

9. Cole Palmer

Cole Palmer’s rapid rise continues, and despite injury setbacks, his place in the squad seems assured. The Chelsea attacker has already shown he can deliver on the big stage, scoring England’s only goal in their Euro 2024 final defeat. Tuchel is a known admirer of Palmer’s creativity and intelligence in the final third. With his technical ability and calmness under pressure, Palmer will be a key attacking option when the World Cup arrives.

8. Jude Bellingham

Few players in world football carry the same influence as Jude Bellingham. Despite missing recent camps through injury, his role within the England team remains unquestioned. The Real Madrid star proved his worth at Euro 2024 with commanding performances and a memorable overhead kick against Slovakia. Bellingham’s mix of leadership, flair, and maturity make him indispensable to Tuchel’s vision for the Three Lions.

7. Harry Kane

Harry Kane remains the heartbeat of this England team. Now at Bayern Munich, the 32-year-old continues to score at a phenomenal rate, netting 18 goals in his first 10 matches this season. As captain, creator, and finisher, Kane’s leadership both on and off the pitch is unmatched. This World Cup could be his final one as England’s talisman, and he’ll be determined to make it count.

6. Bukayo Saka

Bukayo Saka has become one of the most reliable and dynamic wingers in world football. His creativity and direct play from the right flank have made him undroppable for both club and country. Though injuries have tested him recently, his record of 13 goals in 46 caps speaks for itself. If fit, Saka’s inclusion in the World Cup squad is beyond question.

5. Declan Rice

Declan Rice embodies everything Tuchel wants from a midfielder—composure, power, and tactical intelligence. The Arsenal star has developed into one of England’s most consistent performers, capable of dictating games from deep. His leadership and versatility make him vital both defensively and offensively. Rice will undoubtedly play a central role when England kick off their World Cup campaign next summer.

4. Marc Guehi

Marc Guehi’s decision to stay at Crystal Palace has worked wonders for his international career. Now an established Premier League leader, Guehi’s calmness and positioning have impressed Tuchel. England’s defensive options may be limited, but Guehi’s consistency and maturity give him a real edge. If he maintains his current form, he could start alongside John Stones in the heart of England’s defence.

3. John Stones

John Stones brings vital experience to an England side full of emerging talent. With more than 80 caps and multiple major tournaments behind him, the Manchester City defender remains a cornerstone of the squad. His ability to play out from the back fits perfectly with Tuchel’s tactical philosophy. Provided he stays fit, Stones will be one of the first defenders selected for the World Cup.

2. Dean Henderson

Dean Henderson has cemented himself as England’s No.2 goalkeeper, providing solid backup to Jordan Pickford. His form for Crystal Palace has been excellent, combining sharp reflexes with strong command of his area. While he may not start, Henderson’s experience and professionalism make him an asset in camp. England will head to the World Cup confident they have two top-quality options between the sticks.

1. Jordan Pickford

Jordan Pickford remains England’s undisputed first-choice goalkeeper. The Everton man has been a model of consistency for years, rarely putting a glove wrong in international duty. His experience and confidence make him one of the team’s most trusted figures under Tuchel. When the squad list is announced next summer, Pickford’s name will be among the very first.