The 2026 World Cup is approaching. Thomas Tuchel is preparing his England squad plans, and unfortunately, several talented players will miss out due to the competition in the national pool.
This article highlights an XI of England players likely to miss the 2026 World Cup. Reasons include age or setbacks during the 2025/26 season.
GK: Aaron Ramsdale
Aaron Ramsdale’s position weakened after David Raya joined Arsenal, impacting his career. Nonetheless, Ramsdale remains a skilled goalkeeper and is currently England’s fourth choice. Any injuries to the main goalkeepers could bring him back into consideration.
RB: Kyle Walker
Kyle Walker was once among England’s top right-backs. At 33, his best years are behind him. However, his experience in high-stakes matches can be valuable for the national team.
CB: James Tarkowski
James Tarkowski has been unlucky to only earn one England cap. He has consistently performed well at Burnley and Everton but may still find it difficult to break into the squad at 33.
CB: James Hill
James Hill is an underrated defender in the Premier League. Alongside Marcos Senesi, he has made impressive strides this season. However, the presence of established players may delay his chance to join the England squad.
LB: Tyrick Mitchell
Tyrick Mitchell has been a standout wingback for Crystal Palace over the last two seasons. He excels in attack and is a solid defender, but established players ahead of him could keep him off the squad.
CM: Lewis Miley
Lewis Miley has shone in a competitive midfield at Newcastle United, standing out despite the talent around him. However, being only 19 means he is likely to miss out on the World Cup.
CM: Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall
Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall faces the same challenge as Miley with stiff competition in midfield. He has performed well for Everton this season, but the abundance of central midfielders makes joining the squad difficult.
RW: Jacob Murphy
Jacob Murphy may be one of the best senior players without an England cap. His old-school wing style and crossing skills are commendable, but Tuchel might favor younger talents over him.
AM: James Maddison
James Maddison is likely to be excluded from the England squad due to a significant ACL injury that has kept him off the field this season. Without this setback, he would have been a strong candidate.
LW: Jaidon Anthony
Jaidon Anthony is a surprising choice, having an impressive scoring record among wingers this season. However, being part of a relegation-fighting team could lead Tuchel to overlook him, especially with players like Marcus Rashford and Anthony Gordon in contention.
ST: Danny Welbeck
A few years ago, mentioning Danny Welbeck as a potential candidate for the 2026 World Cup would have seemed far-fetched. With ten goals in the Premier League this season, he is at least in the conversation. While he may not outshine stars like Harry Kane and Ollie Watkins, a comeback at age 35 isn’t beyond the realm of possibility.