Predicting England's World Cup starting XI and depth chart

Placed in Group L, the Three Lions will be starting their 2026 campaign this evening when they face Croatia in Dallas. 

England are one of the favourites to win the tournament, and with Thomas Tuchel at the helm, there is a feeling he can take this team to the next level and finally win England's first trophy since 1966. 

Here is DAZN News' projected starting XI for England who will likely be playing a 4-2-3-1 formation, along with a depth chart for each position. 

GOALKEEPER: Jordan Pickford

Jordan Pickford has made England's keeper shirt his own, and since being a part of the reborn national team at the 2018 World Cup, you cannot imagine a Three Lions lineup without him. 

He is a real character off the pitch, but on the pitch, Pickford commands his defence with authority and confidence, and is a very agile shot stopper, something which is vital in international tournament football. 

Depth chart: Dean Henderson, James Trafford

RIGHT BACK: Reece James

As long as he stays fit, Chelsea's Reece James will be the right back. 

Captain of his club Chelsea, James can bring leadership qualities to the back four along with his exceptional crossing and confidence in midfield when asked to advance forward. 

Depth chart: Djed Spence, Ezri Konsa 

CENTRE BACKS: Marc Guehi, Ezri Konsa

Tuchel has often opted for John Stones to partner Marc Guehi, but for the opening match against Croatia, I expect Ezri Konsa to be alongside Guehi. 

This is because Stones has struggled to be consistently fit during the season, and going straight into a World Cup match with very minutes in the legs could be a serious error. 

Depth chart: John Stones, Dan Burn, Trevoh Chalobah, Jarell Quansah

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LEFT BACK: Nico O'Reilly

Manchester City's Nico O'Reilly has been one of the standout players this season, and his reward is being a first choice for England. 

Just like James on the right, O'Reilly is a serious attacking threat, and is a defender who can mix it up in midfield when required. 

Left back however is probably one of the only positions in this England squad where there is very little cover.

Depth chart: Djed Spence 

CENTRAL MIDFIELDERS: Elliot Anderson, Declan Rice

This is the go-to pairing in England's midfield, and it's not expected to be disrupted unless Tuchel chooses to rotate. 

Depth chart: Jordan Henderson, Kobbie Mainoo

RIGHT WING: Noni Madueke

Bukayo Saka would often be the first choice, but his fitness has been a concern in the build-up, meaning his Arsenal teammate Noni Madueke would be a sensible option to start. 

Madueke's is direct with added flair, and already his pace has been catching opponents out in the warm-up matches, now is his chance to make a name for himself on the world stage. 

Depth chart: Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford

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ATTACKING MIDFIELD / NUMBER 10: Jude Bellingham

After constant debate, Jude Bellingham has pipped Morgan Rogers to being England's first choice attacking midfielder. 

His performances in the warm-up matches against Costa Rica and New Zealand were of a player who is ready to grab this World Cup by the scruff of its neck. 

Compared to Euro 2024, Bellingham is in a much better headspace, and despite supposed tensions between him and Tuchel, the Real Madrid midfielder is ready to be a leading man for the Three Lions at the World Cup. 

Depth chart: Morgan Rogers

LEFT WING: Anthony Gordon

Anthony Gordon is another player who has secured his spot in recent days, edging out Marcus Rashford. 

Against Costa Rica, Gordon was relentless with his runs, frequently leaving Costa Rican defenders in all sorts of trouble. 

After securing a move to Barcelona, there is a certain swagger around Gordon, and it will be of huge benefit to England's attack. 

Depth chart: Marcus Rashford, Eberechi Eze

STRIKER: Harry Kane

The first name on every England teamsheet, Harry Kane will lead the line. 

Kane will be the difference if England are to win the World Cup, and after a season at Bayern Munich where he has been scoring goals at will, England fans will be hoping he can bring that form to this summer's World Cup.

Depth chart: Ollie Watkins, Ivan Toney, Marcus Rashford

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