5 London-Based Players We Might See On England’s 2026 World Cup Team
With the 2026 World Cup drawing closer, many major football teams have begun preparations for the huge event. This is especially true in West and South London teams, as there are a few strong players who might just be exactly what Thomas Tuchel is looking for.
Although there has been quite a bit of speculation on who exactly will fill the squad, Tuchel and his staff members are pushing to learn about as many players as possible before the big event. With a wide talent pool to choose from, it is only natural to wonder if any local heroes will make it to the plane.
1. Reece James: The Betting Banker
Chelsea’s own Reece James is no longer a speculation, but a face we are guaranteed to see on the field. Despite his long history with injuries, the player is arguably one of the best right-backs on the plane right now, and Tuchel is not the only one who recognised his potential. The team Captain has proved a fan favourite due to his all-round playing ability, leadership qualities, mental fortitude, and tactical flexibility. With the role James is expected to play in 2026, sportsbooks already track him closely, from projected minutes to likely matchups. That attention shapes how the betting markets look, especially for fans looking to start betting on the 2026 World Cup. James isn’t only a key part of England’s plans but also a player whose profile helps set the tone for early World Cup odds.
2. Cole Palmer: The Goal-Getter
Many fans are certain that Cole Palmer, Chelsea’s versatile, irreplaceable midfielder, will certainly make the cut. Currently, Palmer’s only competition is West Ham United’s Jarrod Bowen. However, experts are certain that Tuchel will not be choosing Bowen over Palmer just based on his clinical finishing and penalty spot composure. The player represents a new generation of English talent, taking an eighth-place ranking in the 2025 Ballon d’Or awards. Not only does this showcase his official recognition as one of the best players in the world, but it also indicates the threat he represents.
3. Marc Guehi: The South London Rock
Marc Guehi, Crystal Palace’s Captain, was chosen as a centre-back for Tuchel’s English squad. Unfortunately, he sustained a pretty nasty foot injury in a recent Conference League game, which saw him return to his club. As such, he was forced to withdraw from participating in the World Cup, but it doesn’t change that he gained Tuchel’s nod of approval. There is no doubt that he was chosen for his composure under pressure, a trait that can impact the outcome in a tournament setting. Beyond this, his ball-carrying abilities and forward-thinking defence are key factors that helped him stand out.
4. Eberechi Eze: The X-Factor
Although Eberechi Eze has not been officially acknowledged as part of the English squad, the Crystal Palace player has been praised by Tuchel. Specifically, it is Eze’s unique play style that stood out to the coach, which Thomas referred to as creatively different from other pros. While Eze faces huge competition, such praise has many speculating that we will definitely be seeing him next year. The unique flair Tuchel refers to is Eze’s unmatched ability to navigate tight spaces, think quickly on his feet, and take the riskier pass if it means victory.
5. Keane Lewis-Potter: The West London Outsider
Brentford’s own Keane Lewis-Potter seems to be the wildcard prediction for the English squad. While there hasn’t been direct confirmation on whether he would appear on the plane, he is one of the picks in the “Might Feature” category. Although players like Gordon, Rashford, and Saka pose some stiff competition, Keane is considered a versatile player. Of course, in an international tournament, this is a good trait to have. Standing as a skilled dribbler, a great offensive threat, and a distance striker, the player might be able to force his way onto Tuchel’s radar as a late pick.
