Who’s Trending for England’s 2026 World Cup Squad?

As the anticipation builds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to kick off on June 11 across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, England’s head coach Thomas Tuchel finds himself in a unique position. With a 35-man squad named for the upcoming friendlies against Uruguay and Japan, Tuchel’s selections offer important hints about England’s prospects and the direction he’s heading with his team. The upcoming tournament will not only showcase established stars but will also spotlight emerging talents vying for a spot on the plane. Let’s delve into the players trending up and trending down in their quest for inclusion in Tuchel’s final 26.

Rising Stars: Players on the Upward Trend

Nico O’Reilly: The Versatile Asset

A standout at Manchester City, Nico O’Reilly has emerged as a pivotal figure in both midfield and defense. At just 21 years old, he has made critical contributions this season, scoring five goals and providing three assists in the Premier League. His ability to step into various roles—most notably left-back—has positioned him as a strong candidate for Tuchel’s World Cup squad. O’Reilly’s knack for crucial goals, including performances against Chelsea and Arsenal, demonstrates his readiness to handle high-pressure situations.

Kobbie Mainoo: The Midfield Maestro

The return of Kobbie Mainoo to international duty has reignited hopes for both the player and fans alike. After earning his first senior call-up, Mainoo showcased his potential on the pitch during friendly matches. His recent performances for Manchester United have solidified his reputation as a rising star in midfield. Scoring the decisive goal in a critical match against Liverpool indicates his growing importance to Tuchel’s plans. With his dynamic playstyle, Mainoo could very well become an integral part of England’s midfield, alongside the likes of Declan Rice.

Morgan Gibbs-White: The Difference-Maker

Morgan Gibbs-White has been exceptional this season, finding the net 16 times and assisting on six occasions while leading Nottingham Forest through a tough relegation battle. His impactful plays—like scoring vital goals against rivals and securing European competitions—illustrate his ability to change the game. His current form makes him a strong contender for a World Cup spot, particularly in a forward position where Tuchel has a wealth of talent.

Ollie Watkins: Timing is Everything

At Aston Villa, Ollie Watkins has revived his goal-scoring form, evident in his crucial strikes during the Euro 2024 qualifiers. After being overlooked previously by Tuchel, he has responded with impressive performances, including a brace against Sunderland. With three league games left in the season and a chance for further European action, Watkins could solidify his place in the squad through continued excellence in front of goal.

Established Names: Players Facing Uncertainty

Trent Alexander-Arnold: A Tough Path Ahead

Despite being a cornerstone of England’s recent teams, Trent Alexander-Arnold’s omission from recent friendlies raises eyebrows. With other right-backs like Livramento getting the nod, Alexander-Arnold’s future with the national team is in jeopardy. Following an injury layoff and lackluster performances, he faces a tough battle to regain his former status. His exceptional play in past tournaments makes it difficult to write him off entirely, but he must impress quickly to reclaim his position.

Phil Foden: Potential vs. Performance

Once hailed as one of England’s brightest young stars, Phil Foden’s status heading into the World Cup is precarious. After a strong start to the season, Foden’s contributions have dwindled to almost non-existent, with his last goals and assists occurring months ago. As competition intensifies, his remarkable talent must translate into consistent performances if he hopes to secure a spot in Tuchel’s final roster. His situation is a cautionary tale of how quickly fortunes can change in football.

Marcus Rashford: A Revitalized Hope

After a challenging period, Marcus Rashford’s resurgence on loan at Barcelona highlights the unpredictability of form in football. In his recent appearances, he has scored key goals and provided vital assists, making him a compelling choice for England. However, the question remains whether his fleeting resurgence can solidify his standing against competition from other forward players before the final squad is announced. His transformative journey is a significant subplot to watch.

Myles Lewis-Skelly: From Fringe Player to Contender

After a somewhat quiet season at Arsenal, Myles Lewis-Skelly has made a strong case for inclusion. Starting key matches in recent weeks has put him back in Tuchel’s radar. If he can maintain his form and contribution in the final stages of the Premier League and the Champions League, there’s potential for him to upset the odds and force his way into the squad. His ability to adapt into a midfield role enhances his versatility, making him a name to watch closely.

In the lead-up to the World Cup, assessing players who are trending up or down is crucial, as every performance counts. With emerging talents making strong cases and established stars facing challenges, Tuchel’s final squad promises to be an exciting mix that captures the spirit of English football. As the countdown begins, all eyes will be on these players as they make their final pushes for inclusion.