Former England striker and football pundit Michael Owen has expressed skepticism over England’s prospects of winning the 2026 FIFA World Cup scheduled to be held in North America. Owen shared his views during a recent interview, citing concerns about the current England squad’s age and overall readiness as factors that could hinder the Three Lions’ quest for the coveted title.
Owen highlighted that while England has come close to glory in recent years—reaching the semi-finals in 2018 and the quarter-finals in 2022, as well as runner-up spots in the UEFA Euro 2020 and the 2024 European Championships—the team still faces challenges that could prevent a breakthrough victory.
In particular, Owen raised issues about the aging core of players and the need for a balance between experienced veterans and emerging talents. He also discussed the pressure England faces from historically strong football nations and the unpredictability of World Cup tournaments where favorites don’t always prevail.
Despite his reservations, Owen acknowledged England’s progress under manager Thomas Tuchel and the presence of world-class players like Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham. However, his prediction is cautious, indicating that England might fall short of lifting the trophy in 2026.
This insight adds to ongoing debates about the realistic chances of traditional football powerhouses in an increasingly competitive global soccer landscape.
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