Qualification confirmed
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England’s ticket to next summer’s World Cup is officially stamped. A comfortable win over Latvia sealed qualification for Thomas Tuchel’s side, as they became the first European nation to book their place. And with it comes a new question: who might join the established stars on the plane to North America? With the next generation thriving in both the Premier League and abroad, the Three Lions’ depth has rarely looked stronger.
A host of U21 talents are already knocking on the door. England U21s themselves tasted Euro 2025 glory this summer – a group of players blending youthful energy with the tactical maturity demanded at international level. Are they ready to challenge convention and force Tuchel’s hand? Here are five U21 players who could make a late push for England’s World Cup squad – the next wave of hopefuls aiming to turn promise into pedigree on football’s biggest stage.
Five U21 stars who could make England’s World Cup squad
Let’s start with the two U21 stars who were in Tuchel’s latest squad selection. Arsenal full-back Myles Lewis-Skelly started in the Three Lions’ demolition of Latvia, and has now made the first XI for five of England’s last seven matches. The 19-year-old is clearly rated by the manager and at this moment in time, the left-back role looks his to lose. Probably the most likely current U21 star to be on the plane next summer. The other U21 star in England’s squad this international break was Manchester City’s Nico O’Reilly, who received his first ever call-up, but did not yet make his debut – an unused sub in both fixtures. However, the 20-year-old has become a regular at left-back for Pep Guardiola’s team and his versatility to play in a number of roles could see him make the final cut next June.
One U21 player who was a real surprise omission from Tuchel’s latest selection was Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton. The 21-year-old has been on fire for the Eagles and has established himself as one of the most promising young defensive midfielders in the game right now. Numerous top European clubs have shown interest, and his ability to fire passes between the lines makes Wharton hot property. If his form continues and he can stay fit, he will surely be on the plane. Another midfielder who could be a potential surprise inclusion is Sunderland’s 18-year-old talent Chris Rigg. If he can adapt to the step up to the Premier League, could Tuchel chuck him in? Time will tell. The final player we have selected is Everton’s Tyler Dibling. It will be interesting to see the numbers he can achieve playing in a better team – the type of player who can get you off of your feet.