This article is part of the 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, a collaboration among top media organizations from the 48 nations that qualified. As the tournament approaches, is offering previews from three countries each day leading up to the kickoff on June 11.
England’s Qualification Success
Qualifying for the tournament was a walk in the park for England, who achieved an impressive eight victories in as many matches, scoring 22 goals while conceding none. However, the competition faced was relatively weak, raising the perennial question of how the Three Lions will perform against elite teams in knockout scenarios.
Enter Thomas Tuchel. Appointed after a series of near misses with Gareth Southgate, Tuchel is under pressure to guide England to a long-awaited victory, aiming to end a 60-year drought. At his introduction in October 2024, he remarked on the goal to “to try and put a second star on the shirt” Yet, he remains realistic about the challenges ahead, stating, “We can’t be one of the favourites as we haven’t won it for so long,”
Despite some challenges during his tenure, including disappointing performances against Andorra and Senegal last summer, there have been notable successes. England thrives when united in purpose, and Tuchel has emphasized fostering a sense of brotherhood among the players. He made bold decisions in squad selection, leaving out Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, and Trent Alexander-Arnold while including Ivan Toney, achieving clarity in his strategy.
The team is expected to adopt a 4-2-3-1 formation, boasting a wealth of attacking talent, numerous No 10s, and Declan Rice, one of the world’s top midfielders. However, uncertainties loom regarding defensive choices and the fitness of key players. The dynamic between Tuchel and Jude Bellingham will be crucial, as the Real Madrid star could be pivotal in leading England towards potential glory.
Positive performances were essential as England secured warm-up victories against New Zealand and Costa Rica in Florida. Tuchel expressed optimism after the win over Costa Rica, saying, “There are proven winners within the tournament. These are the favourites.”
Coaching Under Tuchel
The idea of a German coaching England might seem unusual, but Thomas Tuchel is an anglophile who embraces the culture. He is recognized as one of the top managers globally, having won league titles with Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain, and his Champions League triumph with Chelsea in 2021 highlighted his expertise in knockout tournaments. However, this will be his initial venture into international management. Southgate excelled in creating the right atmosphere during competitions; the question remains whether Tuchel, who recently extended his contract through to Euro 2028, can ensure the pressure of the shirt does not weigh heavily on the players.
England’s Star Player
It’s remarkable to think there were doubts surrounding Harry Kane’s future with England following his substitution in the Euro 2024 final defeat against Spain. The striker struggled during that tournament, appearing less than fully fit, but he continues to be the team’s driving force and leader. Simply put, England’s performance hinges on their captain and all-time leading scorer. Tuchel needs Kane to be at his best; the Bayern Munich forward has had another outstanding season, and a successful World Cup could place him in contention for the Ballon d’Or.
Emerging Talents
While England boasts several talented No 10s, Morgan Rogers has particularly impressed under Tuchel. The Aston Villa forward delivered a standout performance in the 5-0 victory against Serbia last September, earning praise for his contributions both on and off the ball. Tuchel appreciates Rogers’s counterpressing skills, which might see the 23-year-old rise in importance over established players like Bellingham and Eberechi Eze. Rogers is confident in his abilities, stating, “This will hopefully be an amazing experience,”
Key Players
For a long time, the question of who partners Declan Rice in midfield has been prevalent. Southgate struggled to find the right fit after Kalvin Phillips faded from the scene, but Tuchel has identified Elliot Anderson as a significant talent. The Nottingham Forest midfielder has shown remarkable growth since his senior debut last September. On the eve of the tournament, Forest rejected a £122 million offer from Manchester City, and Anderson is now a key starter for England. Tuchel remarked, “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,”
Projecting the Starting Lineup
Fan Expectations
Prepare for a global audience to misinterpret the phrase “He is one of the best midfielders in the Premier League,” as ironic and self-deprecating, a nod to past failures. While England usually enjoys robust support during tournaments, this event has seen significant complaints about ticket prices. The Football Supporters’ Association labeled them as “That’s why he is with us and starting for us. He is a very complete and mobile midfielder.” and reports from February indicated that England might not sell out their official FA allocation if they reach the final. Fans have criticized the greed, dubbing this the rip-off World Cup.
Political Landscape
With the royal family recently visiting, it’s possible that President Trump might join in singing God Save The King before England matches. Although Trump’s relations with the UK government are currently strained, it’s unlikely the FA will engage in political discussions, as they remained neutral during the last World Cup in Qatar. The focus will likely stay on football, with the FA not vocally defending fans regarding ticket prices.
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