ENFIELD, ENGLAND - MARCH 23: Thomas Tuchel, Head Coach of England, looks on during a training session at Tottenham Hotspur Training Centre on March 23, 2025 in Enfield, England. (Photo by Eddie Keogh - The FA/The FA via Getty Images)
With the 2026 World Cup fast approaching, set to take place in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, the focus for the England national team is on squad preparation. England secured qualification by finishing at the top of their group, impressively without conceding a goal under the management of Thomas Tuchel. As the tournament nears, discussions about potential squad expansions are gaining traction.
FIFA is reportedly considering increasing the maximum squad size from 26 to 30 players. This change could provide England with greater depth and options for their squad, allowing more players who might otherwise miss out a chance to showcase their talents on the international stage.
Key Players Who Could Benefit
Several players currently on the fringes of the England squad stand to gain significantly from this proposed expansion.
Trent Alexander-Arnold remains a notable case. Despite his reputation and past performances, he is not assured a position in the final squad. Tuchel has shown hesitance in his selection, particularly after Alexander-Arnold’s time at Real Madrid. A strong season could bolster his chances, and a 30-player roster would certainly enhance his position.
Another player who could find a spot is Djed Spence. The Tottenham full-back has made a strong impression under manager Thomas Frank. However, with fierce competition in the current squad, Spence may struggle to make the cut in a 26-man setup. The additional slots could allow Tuchel to incorporate Spence’s versatility and pace, which would be beneficial for the team’s dynamics.
Jarrod Bowen, West Ham’s standout attacking talent, has consistently delivered impressive performances even amid the club’s struggles. His ability to score and create chances has made him a valuable player, yet the depth of England’s attacking options has often sidelined him. An expanded squad could finally provide Bowen the opportunity to prove his worth on the world stage.
Another candidate is Jack Grealish, who played a pivotal role during Euro 2020 but has since faced challenges in securing playing time at Manchester City. His loan to Everton appears to be reviving his form, making him an intriguing option for Tuchel. Should the squad size increase, Grealish could serve as a wildcard, bringing creativity and flair to the team.
Finally, Ollie Watkins offers another layer of depth in attack. While no striker has come close to matching Harry Kane‘s performance at Bayern Munich this season, Tuchel will need reliable alternatives. Watkins has had a slow start with Aston Villa but has previously proven himself capable at the international level. His inclusion could bolster England’s offensive strategy in the tournament.
As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup continues, the prospect of a larger squad presents both opportunities and challenges. With players like Alexander-Arnold, Spence, Bowen, Grealish, and Watkins potentially on the brink of selection, the upcoming months will be crucial for their international aspirations. The expansion could allow England to harness its rich pool of talent and enhance its chances of claiming football’s most prestigious trophy.
