The Thomas Tuchel era for the England national team is set to kick off this Friday night, as the Three Lions prepare to welcome Albania in their inaugural World Cup 2026 qualifying match. It’s a highly anticipated moment for English football fans eager to see what the German tactician will bring to the squad.
Tuchel, the former Chelsea manager celebrated for his tactical prowess, took the reins as England head coach late last year. He inked an 18-month deal, positioning him at the helm through the entirety of the upcoming World Cup tournament. His appointment has generated considerable excitement and optimism within the footballing community.
With a stellar track record in major football tournaments, including a Champions League title under his belt, Tuchel’s pedigree suggests England could be a serious contender for glory at the World Cup in the United States next summer. Many believe his experience and strategic acumen are exactly what the Three Lions need to finally lift the coveted trophy.
Ahead of Friday’s clash, anticipation is building around the team selection. Here, we delve into a predicted starting XI that Tuchel might deploy for this opening World Cup qualifier.
Predicted England Lineup vs Albania: Tuchel’s Tactical Debut
Here’s a breakdown of our predicted England starting XI for their World Cup 2026 qualifier against Albania:
- Goalkeeper:
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Jordan Pickford: Everton’s shot-stopper, Jordan Pickford, is widely expected to retain his position as England’s number one goalkeeper. Having been the preferred choice in goal for every major tournament since the 2018 World Cup, his experience and reliability between the posts are invaluable. Pickford looks set to continue as the first-choice keeper, at least through the next World Cup cycle.
England Defence Under Tuchel: Back Four Expected
- Defenders:
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Tuchel, known for his tactical flexibility, often employed a three-man defence during his time managing Chelsea. However, indications suggest he is likely to transition England to a more conventional back four. Considering this, we predict the defensive lineup:
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Right-Back: Reece James: Chelsea’s dynamic full-back, Reece James, is tipped to start on the right side of defence. Despite his international career being somewhat disrupted by injuries, James’s quality is undeniable. This World Cup qualifying campaign provides him with a crucial opportunity to solidify his place in the squad and stake a claim for a starting role next summer.
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Centre-Back Partnership: Marc Guehi and Ezri Konsa: In central defence, Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi is projected to partner with Aston Villa’s Ezri Konsa. With John Stones absent from the current squad, this pairing presents a solid and athletic centre-back duo. Guehi brings composure and ball-playing ability, while Konsa offers strength and aerial prowess.
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Left-Back: Myles Lewis-Skelly: A potentially bold selection at left-back could see Arsenal’s promising youngster, Myles Lewis-Skelly, handed a start. With a lack of established senior natural left-backs readily available, Tuchel might opt to give Lewis-Skelly a chance to impress. Alternatives such as Newcastle United’s Dan Burn, versatile but naturally a centre-back, and Chelsea’s Levi Colwill, who has also filled in at left-back for his club, offer cover, but Lewis-Skelly could represent a more attacking and dynamic option.
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Guehi was a regular starter for England at the European Championships last summer
- Midfielders:
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The midfield engine room is anticipated to feature a blend of dynamism and experience:
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Jude Bellingham: Real Madrid’s sensation, Jude Bellingham, is a guaranteed starter. His ascent to football stardom has been nothing short of meteoric. Now a pivotal figure for both England and his club, Bellingham’s energy, creativity, and goal-scoring threat make him indispensable.
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Declan Rice: Arsenal’s midfield anchor, Declan Rice, will likely partner Bellingham. A mainstay for the Three Lions in recent years, Rice provides defensive solidity, excellent passing range, and leadership qualities in the centre of the park.
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Curtis Jones: Completing the midfield trio could be Liverpool’s Curtis Jones. The 24-year-old is enjoying a standout season for the Reds, showcasing his technical skills, work rate, and growing maturity. Despite only having a couple of senior England caps to his name, Jones’s current form warrants a starting opportunity.
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Jordan Henderson: Veteran midfielder Jordan Henderson, recalled to the squad by Tuchel in a somewhat surprising move, is expected to begin the match on the bench. His experience could be valuable later in the game.
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Henderson was a surprise recall to the England squad
- Forwards:
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England’s attacking trident is set to feature a mix of proven goal-scorers and exciting wing play:
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Centre-Forward: Harry Kane: Captain Harry Kane will spearhead the attack. England’s all-time leading scorer with an impressive 69 goals, Kane will be eager to add to his international tally and lead from the front.
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Right Wing: Phil Foden: Manchester City’s Phil Foden is likely to start on the right flank. Despite what some consider a somewhat inconsistent season by his high standards at club level, Foden’s talent and potential are undeniable. Tuchel will be hoping to unlock Foden’s best form for the national team.
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Left Wing: Anthony Gordon: On the opposite wing, Newcastle United’s Anthony Gordon is in contention to start. Gordon has been a revelation for Eddie Howe’s side this season, impressing with his pace, directness, and goal contributions. His inclusion would offer a dynamic and fresh dimension to England’s attack.
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Kane is England’s all-time leading goal scorer
Predicted England Starting XI vs Albania:
| Position | Player |
|---|---|
| Goalkeeper | Jordan Pickford |
| Right-Back | Reece James |
| Centre-Back | Ezri Konsa |
| Centre-Back | Marc Guehi |
| Left-Back | Myles Lewis-Skelly |
| Defensive Midfielder | Declan Rice |
| Central Midfielder | Jude Bellingham |
| Attacking Midfielder | Curtis Jones |
| Right Wing | Phil Foden |
| Centre-Forward | Harry Kane (C) |
| Left Wing | Anthony Gordon |
This predicted lineup suggests Tuchel is aiming for a blend of youth and experience, with a focus on attacking football. The inclusion of Lewis-Skelly and Jones indicates a willingness to give young talent a chance, while the established core of Pickford, James, Guehi, Konsa, Rice, Bellingham, and Kane provides a solid foundation. The exciting wing partnership of Foden and Gordon promises dynamism and creativity.
What do you think of this predicted England starting XI? Let us know your thoughts and your own predicted lineup in the comments below! Don’t miss the match this Friday to see how Tuchel’s England journey begins!