Pep Guardiola is optimistic about England's chances in the 2026 World Cup, hoping they will succeed under Thomas Tuchel. England qualified for the tournament in North America smoothly and will learn their
group during Friday's draw. Tuchel, who started his role earlier this year, has led England to eight consecutive wins without conceding a goal.
England is considered a strong contender for the trophy. Guardiola, who has been in England since joining Manchester City in 2016, believes the team is ready to advance after close calls at Euro 2020 and 2024. When asked about World Cup favourites, Guardiola said: "The same ones. Everybody knows. We will be in agreement about the candidates if we name the same four or five candidates. Everybody knows it. I would like England to be there. "
The FIFA World Cup draw takes place today at 5 pm UK time in Washington DC, as announced by the official England Twitter account.
Today's the day. The @FIFAWorldCup draw takes place from 5pm (UK time) in Washington DC! pic.twitter.com/lrvgbGqz23
- England (@England) December 5, 2025
The Opta supercomputer gives England an 11.8% chance of winning the World Cup next summer. This prediction places them just behind France and Spain, who are the European champions.
After Gareth Southgate stepped down following back-to-back Euros final defeats in 2024, Guardiola was speculated to take over but Lee Carsley was appointed on an interim basis before Tuchel assumed control. Guardiola expressed his desire for Tuchel and his team to achieve success: "I don't want to pretend to be too nice but I have been here for many years and been part of the country. I would love Thomas [Tuchel] and the people to make the last step and do it. "
With a solid track record under Tuchel's leadership, England is poised as one of the top contenders for World Cup glory next year.
