This article is part of the Guardian’s 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, a collaborative effort among leading media organizations from the 48 nations that qualified. In the lead-up to the tournament commencing on June 11, will feature previews from three countries each day.
Preparation Strategy
England’s qualification journey was remarkably straightforward. The team achieved an impressive record of eight victories in eight matches, scoring 22 goals while conceding none. However, the competition faced was relatively weak. The lingering question remains: how will the Three Lions perform against top-tier teams in a knockout format?
Enter Thomas Tuchel. Appointed after a series of near misses under Gareth Southgate, the German manager is tasked with leading England to their first major tournament victory in 60 years. During his unveiling in October 2024, Tuchel expressed his ambition to “to try and put a second star on the shirt” Nevertheless, he remains realistic about the team’s chances this summer, acknowledging, “We can’t be one of the favourites as we haven’t won it for so long,”
The build-up to the tournament has not been without challenges. Tuchel faced criticism for England’s performances against teams like Andorra and Senegal last summer, yet there have been notable successes. The squad demonstrates a strong sense of unity, which Tuchel emphasizes as he aims to cultivate a brotherhood within the team. His squad selections have raised eyebrows—most notably the exclusions of Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, while including Ivan Toney—indicating he might have gained clarity on his best options.
Anticipate England to adopt a 4-2-3-1 formation. The team boasts an array of attacking talents, including several players capable of playing as No. 10s, alongside Declan Rice, who is considered one of the world’s top midfielders. However, concerns linger over the defensive lineup and the fitness of key players. The dynamics between Tuchel and Jude Bellingham will also be crucial; if the Real Madrid midfielder finds his rhythm, he could be instrumental in leading England to glory.
It was vital for Bellingham to deliver strong performances as England secured warm-up victories against New Zealand and Costa Rica in Florida. “There are proven winners within the tournament. These are the favourites.” Tuchel remarked following the win against Costa Rica.
The Coach
Having a German at the helm of England may seem unusual to some, yet Thomas Tuchel is an anglophile at heart. Understanding the culture, he ranks among the world’s elite managers. Tuchel has claimed league titles with Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain, and his Champions League victory with Chelsea in 2021 underscored his expertise in knockout competitions. However, this marks his first venture into international management. While Southgate excelled at creating a supportive environment during tournaments, the question remains if Tuchel, whose contract has been extended through Euro 2028, can ensure the pressure of the shirt does not overwhelm the players.
Key Player
It’s hard to believe there were once doubts surrounding Harry Kane’s future with England, especially following his substitution during the loss to Spain in the Euro 2024 final. Despite struggling through that tournament while clearly not at his best, Kane remains the team’s driving force and captain. Simply put, England’s success hinges on their record goalscorer. Tuchel will need a fit Kane, who has enjoyed another outstanding season at Bayern Munich. A strong showing at the World Cup could even place him in the running for the Ballon d’Or.
Emerging Talent
England boasts several players capable of playing as No. 10, yet Morgan Rogers has stood out under Tuchel’s guidance. The Aston Villa forward made a significant impact during a 5-0 victory over Serbia in Belgrade last September and is known for his contributions both on and off the ball. Tuchel appreciates Rogers’s counter-pressing abilities, which may elevate the 23-year-old, a passionate football enthusiast, above established stars like Bellingham and Eberechi Eze. Rogers expressed his confidence, stating, “This will hopefully be an amazing experience,”
Unsung Contributor
Declan Rice’s midfield partner has long been a topic of debate. With Kalvin Phillips fading from the picture, Tuchel has found a gem in Elliot Anderson. The Nottingham Forest midfielder has made impressive strides since his senior debut last September. Just before the tournament, Forest rejected a £122 million offer from Manchester City, affirming Anderson’s status as 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 remarked. “He is one of the best midfielders in the Premier League,”
Projected Starting Lineup
Fan Expectations
Prepare for the global audience to feign ignorance about the ironic nature of “That’s why he is with us and starting for us. He is a very complete and mobile midfielder.” a phrase reflecting years of disappointment. While England typically enjoys robust support during tournaments, this edition has sparked considerable discontent over ticket pricing. The Football Supporters’ Association has labeled the costs “scandalous,” and in February it was reported that England might not sell out their official FA allocation if they reach the final. Fan groups have criticized what they call the rip-off World Cup.
US Relations and Political Context
With the British royal family recently visiting, it’s amusing to think President Trump might be singing God Save The King before matches. Despite the current chilly relations between Trump and the UK government, it’s unlikely the FA will engage in political discourse, just as they refrained during the last World Cup in Qatar. The focus is anticipated to remain firmly on football, with the FA not making significant efforts to defend fans regarding ticket prices.
- World Cup 2026: Guardian Experts’ Network
- England
- World Cup 2026
- World Cup
- features
