Scholes' Bold World Cup Prediction for England
Former Manchester United and England midfielder Paul Scholes has made a stunning prediction, firmly stating that he believes the current national side will win the 2026 World Cup under the guidance of manager Thomas Tuchel.
Scholes, who earned 66 caps for his country, expressed his confident outlook following England's perfect conclusion to their qualifying campaign. The Three Lions sealed a 2-0 victory over Albania on Sunday, marking an impressive end to their journey to the tournament in North America.
A Record-Breaking Qualifying Campaign
This victory was not just another win; it cemented a historic achievement for English football. The team, who were finalists at Euro 2024, have become the first European nation ever to navigate an entire World Cup qualifying campaign of more than six matches without conceding a single goal.
Since his appointment at the start of the year, German coach Tuchel has quickly imposed his style on the squad. Impressive away wins against Serbia and a commanding performance at home against Wales have showcased the team's significant potential under his leadership. The team now enters a hiatus, with their next fixtures scheduled for March next year, when preparations for the World Cup will intensify.
Why Tuchel is the Difference Maker
Speaking on the podcast The Good, The Bad & The Football, Scholes left no room for doubt about his expectations. ‘I really think they will win the World Cup, I do honestly,’ he declared. ‘I think they’re a great team.’
He acknowledged the challenge ahead, noting that England must still overcome the world's elite teams, a hurdle they have previously struggled with. However, Scholes believes Tuchel possesses the unique qualities needed for ultimate success. ‘I think this manager is the one that could get them over the line,’ he stated.
Addressing concerns about the challenging conditions in America, Scholes highlighted the team's modern style of play as a key advantage. ‘We have like 65, 70 per cent possession every time... this team they keep the ball all day long,’ he explained, contrasting it with the England teams of his era.
Scholes was also full of praise for Tuchel's ruthless, team-first approach, which he sees as a crucial upgrade. While crediting former manager Gareth Southgate for uniting the squad, he suggested Tuchel has the edge when it comes to winning major trophies. ‘Now, we’ve got a manager who is ruthless and he doesn’t care. It’s all about his team, not about individuals,’ Scholes added.
This no-nonsense attitude has been evident in Tuchel's decisions, such as his controversial choice to leave fit-again Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham out of the squad for October's internationals.
Fellow former United midfielder Nicky Butt echoed this sentiment, admitting that while he initially had reservations about a non-British coach, Tuchel's authoritative management has won him over. ‘You know who is the boss,’ Butt said, emphasising the importance of a strong leader for a squad full of big personalities.
As the football world looks ahead, bookmakers currently have England as second favourites to lift the trophy, with odds of 6/1, behind only Spain. The official draw for the World Cup will take place in December, setting the stage for what England hopes will be a historic summer.
