Arsene Wenger has revealed his World Cup favourites as the former Arsenal manager shares his verdict on England’s chances of breaking their major tournament curse in 2026.
As anticipation builds ahead of Friday’s World Cup draw, Wenger shared his take on the nations likely to make history in the United States. In Wenger’s eyes, England stand on the cusp of something special, but does not deem them as outright favourites.
Wenger said: “England are one of the favourites of the World Cup. They are always nearly there. And they have to make the step. They have the quality to win.”
Players of England acknowledge the fans following the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Albania and England. (Photo by Eddie Keogh – The FA/The FA via Getty Images)
Despite praising England’s evolution, Wenger stopped short of placing them at the very summit of the contenders. That honour, he insisted, sits squarely with France. He highlighted an unrivalled depth of elite forwards as the primary reason Les Bleus are a little ahead of Tuchel’s troops.
“By trying to be as objective as possible, I think France are the super favourites. Just for one reason,” he argued. “They have more world-class strikers than any other country. To have such a bench and such quality will make the difference.”
England under Gareth Southgate failed to claim silverware at Euro 2024, as Spain outclassed them in a final.
Following Southgate’s decision to withdraw from the team, Thomas Tuchel was appointed as his successor.
The former Chelsea manager ensured England not only topped their qualifiers group but did so perfectly, winning all eight matches and, incredibly, doing so without conceding a single goal.
