The 2026 World Cup will take place in the United States, Canada and Mexico – with the new US president-elect Donald Trump’s presence likely to be a talking point leading up to the competition.
When it comes to the football, though, England may see this as their best chance to win the World Cup in 20 years.
With a manager arguably in his prime taking charge – it will be just five years since Tuchel lifted the Champions League with Chelsea – and two more years of experience for a young group post-Euro 2024, the Three Lions have to be among the favourites.
But how does Football Manager think the tournament will go? Let’s take a look:
The system
Before we get on to the football, Football Manager predicts that Tuchel will line up with four defenders rather than opt for a three-man system.
The German boss used a 4-2-3-1 or 4-3-3 while at Dortmund, before switching it up to suit the personnel at Chelsea.
But at PSG and Bayern, he returned to the system that had seen him achieve success during his early career.
England line up in a 4-2-3-1 formation at the 2026 World Cup – Image: Football Manager
As far as the starting XI goes, meanwhile, there are a number of surprises.
Aaron Ramsdale is preferred in goal to Jordan Pickford, while Tuchel places faith in Rico Lewis and the fit-again Luke Shaw at full-back.
Jarell Quansah gets the nod ahead of John Stones – who doesn’t start a single game – at centre-back, while Marc Guehi is ever-present.
In midfield, Tuchel opts for a duo of Kobbie Mainoo and Trent Alexander-Arnold, with Phil Foden playing ahead of them in a central attacking midfield position.
