This article forms part of the 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, a collaboration between top media outlets from the 48 nations participating. In the lead-up to the tournament starting on June 11, is providing previews from three countries daily.
Strategic Overview
England’s journey through the qualifying rounds was notably smooth, achieving a perfect record of eight victories in eight matches, netting 22 goals while maintaining a clean sheet. However, the quality of their opponents was less than formidable. The pressing concern remains how the Three Lions will perform against elite teams in a knockout scenario.
Enter Thomas Tuchel. Appointed following a series of disappointments under Gareth Southgate, the German’s mission is to guide England to their first major triumph in 60 years. At his introduction in October 2024, Tuchel expressed his aspiration, stating it aims “to try and put a second star on the shirt” However, he remains pragmatic about their chances this summer. “We can’t be one of the favourites as we haven’t won it for so long,” Tuchel remarked recently. “There are proven winners within the tournament. These are the favourites.”
England: Group L Fixtures
June 17 vs. Croatia, Dallas (3 PM local, 9 PM BST, June 18 6 AM AEST)
June 23 vs. Ghana, Boston (4 PM local, 9 PM BST, June 24 6 AM AEST)
June 27 vs. Panama, New York/New Jersey (5 PM local, 10 PM BST, June 28 7 AM AEST)
The buildup has had its challenges. Some performances, particularly against Andorra and Senegal last summer, elicited criticism, yet there have also been commendable displays. England thrives when united under a common goal. Tuchel has emphasized fostering a brotherhood and is focused on cultivating the right culture within the squad. His selection choices have raised eyebrows, including the exclusion of Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, but the inclusion of Ivan Toney suggests a clear vision.
England is expected to adopt a 4-2-3-1 formation. They possess a wealth of attacking talent, numerous players capable of playing as No 10s, and Declan Rice, who is regarded as one of the world’s top midfielders. Nevertheless, uncertainties linger regarding defensive options and ongoing fitness issues with key players. Tuchel’s relationship with Jude Bellingham will require careful management; if the Real Madrid midfielder performs at his peak, he could be pivotal in securing the trophy for England.
It was crucial for Bellingham to perform well as England comfortably secured warm-up victories over New Zealand and Costa Rica in Florida. “This will hopefully be an amazing experience,” Tuchel commented following the win against Costa Rica.
The Coach
The idea of a German managing England may seem surprising, yet Thomas Tuchel is a keen admirer of English culture. He understands the nuances and is recognized as one of the premier managers globally. Having won league titles with Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain, his Champions League victory with Chelsea in 2021 highlighted his expertise in knockout competitions. This, however, marks his debut in international management. Southgate excelled in creating an optimal environment during tournaments; the question remains if Tuchel, who has recently extended his contract until Euro 2028, can alleviate the pressure associated with the England shirt.
Star Player
It’s remarkable to recall the doubts surrounding Harry Kane’s future with England after he was substituted during the loss to Spain in the Euro 2024 final. He struggled throughout that tournament, clearly not at his best, yet he remains the team’s driving force and captain. Simply put, England relies heavily on their record goalscorer. Tuchel will need Kane to be in top form. The Bayern Munich striker has enjoyed another prolific season, and a successful World Cup could see him in contention for the Ballon d’Or.
Player to Watch
While England boasts an array of No 10s, Morgan Rogers has particularly stood out under Tuchel’s guidance. The Aston Villa forward made a significant impact last September during a 5-0 victory over Serbia in Belgrade and is appreciated for his contributions both on and off the ball. Tuchel admires Rogers’s counter-pressing abilities, potentially placing the 23-year-old above notable names like Bellingham and Eberechi Eze in the selection hierarchy. Confident in his abilities, Rogers states, “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,”
Unsung Hero
For some time, the question of who partners Declan Rice in midfield was a concern. Southgate struggled to find a suitable option post-Kalvin Phillips, but Tuchel has discovered Elliot Anderson. The Nottingham Forest midfielder has made remarkable progress since his senior debut last September. Leading up to the tournament, Forest rejected a £122 million offer from Manchester City, and Anderson has established himself as a key starter for England. “He is one of the best midfielders in the Premier League,” Tuchel stated. “That’s why he is with us and starting for us. He is a very complete and mobile midfielder.”
Probable Starting XI
Fan Expectations
Prepare for the global audience to misinterpret the phrase “It’s coming home” as a humorous nod to years of disappointment. The longing persists, and while England typically enjoys substantial support at tournaments, this particular event has sparked discontent regarding ticket prices. The Football Supporters’ Association criticized these prices as “scandalous,” and in February, it was revealed that England may fail to sell out their official FA allocation if they reach the final. Fan groups have condemned the excessive costs, dubbing this the rip-off World Cup.
US Relations and Political Context
With the royal family recently visiting, it’s conceivable that President Trump might join in singing God Save The King before England’s matches. Despite the chilly relations between Trump and the UK government, it’s unlikely that the FA will engage in political matters, as they refrained from doing so during the previous World Cup in Qatar. The focus is expected to remain firmly on football, and the FA has not been very vocal in advocating for fans regarding ticket prices.
