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<p>Qualification Confirmed</p>
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<img alt="Adam Wharton, Chris Rigg & Co. - Five U21 players who could make a push for the England World Cup squad" src="https://tmssl.akamaized.net//images/foto/galerie/england-u21-spotlight-1760524337-180410.png" title="Adam Wharton, Chris Rigg & Co. - Five U21 players who could make a push for the England World Cup squad" />
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<p>England's ticket to next summer's World Cup is officially secured. A decisive victory over Latvia ensured qualification for Thomas Tuchel's squad, marking them as the first European nation to confirm their spot. This brings forth a new question: who among the new talents will join the established stars on the journey to North America? With emerging talents shining in both the Premier League and international leagues, the depth of the Three Lions has never looked more promising.</p>
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<p>A plethora of U21 talents are already making a case for inclusion. The England U21s celebrated Euro 2025 success this summer, showcasing a blend of youthful exuberance and the tactical acumen required at the international level. Are they prepared to challenge the status quo and influence Tuchel’s selection? Here we present five U21 players who may make a late bid for a place in England's World Cup squad—the next generation aspiring to convert potential into performance on football's grandest platform.</p>
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<h2>Five U21 Stars with World Cup Potential</h2>
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<p>We begin with two U21 players featured in Tuchel’s recent squad selection. Arsenal left-back Myles Lewis-Skelly started in the Three Lions' comprehensive victory over Latvia and has been in the starting lineup for five of England's last seven matches. At just 19 years old, he is highly regarded by the manager, and the left-back position currently seems to be his to lose. He is the frontrunner among U21 stars likely to board the flight next summer. The other U21 player included in the squad was Manchester City's Nico O'Reilly, who received his first call-up but remained an unused substitute in both matches. However, at 20 years old, he has established himself as a regular left-back for Pep Guardiola's team, and his versatility in various positions could secure him a seat on the plane next June.</p>
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<p>A surprising exclusion from Tuchel's latest squad was Crystal Palace midfielder Adam Wharton, age 21. He has been impressive for the Eagles and is quickly becoming one of the brightest young defensive midfielders in the sport. Several top European clubs are expressing interest in him, and his ability to deliver incisive passes between lines makes him a valuable asset. If he maintains his outstanding form and stays injury-free, he will almost certainly be part of the squad. Another young midfielder to watch is 18-year-old Chris Rigg from Sunderland; if he smoothly transitions to the Premier League, could Tuchel consider him? Time will tell. Lastly, we spotlight Everton's Tyler Dibling; it will be fascinating to see how his performance improves while playing for a stronger team. He is the kind of player who can truly excite fans.</p>
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