The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, and for England fans, the build-up has been dominated by squad selection, injuries, and the return of familiar faces. Thomas Tuchel's side are among the favourites, but the road to the tournament has been anything but smooth.
England are preparing for the 2026 World Cup, which kicks off in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The tournament is the first to feature 48 teams, and England are in a group with Costa Rica, among others. Thomas Tuchel named his 26-man squad earlier this month, with several surprise inclusions and notable absentees.
“A guide to England's World Cup 2026 campaign, including squad news, injuries, and key storylines.”
One of the biggest stories has been the recall of veteran defender Kieran Trippier. The 35-year-old former England full-back left Newcastle at the end of his contract and has signed a two-year deal with Wolves. Trippier made 54 appearances for England between 2017 and 2024, and his experience is seen as crucial for a squad lacking in tournament know-how. Wolves head coach Rob Edwards said: "We know what we've lacked this year… experience, leadership, resilient characters… Tripps ticks every box." Trippier's signing comes as Wolves look to rebuild after being relegated from the Premier League.
Another England narrative centres on Djed Spence, the Tottenham full-back who suffered a broken jaw in the penultimate Premier League game after a challenge by Chelsea's Liam Delap. Despite the injury, Spence was selected by Tuchel and will wear a protective face mask throughout the tournament. "It's three months until it's fully healed," Spence said. "It's a little bit uncomfortable, but I've got to wear it through the tournament." Spence's versatility—he can play both right and left back—was a key factor in his selection, and he provided an assist for Harry Kane in a pre-tournament friendly against New Zealand.
The stakes are high for England, who have not won a World Cup since 1966. Tuchel's squad blends youth and experience, with players like Harry Kane and Phil Foden alongside the returning Trippier and the courageous Spence. The tournament also sees Mexico as hosts, with former Wolves striker Raul Jimenez—now at Fulham but set to leave on a free transfer—leading the line for the hosts. Jimenez is Wolves' all-time top Premier League scorer with 40 goals, and he is on international duty with Mexico, who begin their campaign against South Africa.
For UK readers, the World Cup is a major cultural event. Matches will air on BBC and ITV, and many fans will travel to the US or tune in late at night due to time zone differences. The tournament also has economic implications, with broadcast rights and advertising driving significant revenue. But the main draw is the football: a chance for England to end 60 years of hurt.
Q: When does the 2026 World Cup start and where is it held? The tournament begins in June 2026, with the opening match featuring Mexico against South Africa. It is co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with final set to be played in New Jersey.
Q: Why is Kieran Trippier coming out of international retirement for the World Cup? Trippier, now 35, was brought back by Thomas Tuchel to add experience and leadership to a young England squad. He had not played for England since 2024 but impressed in the Premier League last season before joining Wolves on a free transfer.
Q: How serious is Djed Spence's injury and will it affect his performance? Spence broke his jaw in a Premier League match against Chelsea and must wear a protective mask throughout the tournament. He has been training with it and says the discomfort won't stop him playing; the bone will take three months to fully heal.