Owen Warns England May Struggle at 2026 World Cup Under Tuchel
Harry Kane (Bayern Munich), Kyle Walker (Burnley), John Stones, Phil Foden (Manchester City)
October 2025
Ex-England striker Michael Owen has warned that the Three Lions could struggle at the 2026 World Cup due to ageing stars, dips in form, and harsh conditions in North America. He doubts Tuchel’s squad is improving compared to recent years.
Owen noted Kane and Stones are past their peak, Walker will be absent, and players like Foden haven’t maintained prior levels. He also flagged squad depth issues in defence and concerns over fitness in hot U.S./Mexico conditions. Tuchel’s challenge will be building chemistry around younger talents like Bellingham and Saka while phasing out fading veterans.