Former England striker Michael Owen has never been one to shy away from saying what others are thinking — and his latest comments have certainly sparked debate. The Liverpool legend has openly questioned whether Thomas Tuchel’s England have what it takes to go all the way at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, suggesting the Three Lions might already be past their peak.
Speaking to 247Bet, Owen admitted he’s far from convinced about England’s chances. “I’m not confident about us winning the World Cup at this stage,” he said bluntly. While he praised the nation for consistently being “a top footballing nation… knocking on the door with finals and semi-finals,” his tone made it clear — this might not be the year.
“Star Players Are Getting Older”
Owen’s biggest concern? The core of the squad. With the tournament set to unfold across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, he fears that age and conditions could conspire against Tuchel’s men. “Star players such as Kane are getting older — he’s not going to be getting any better,” Owen warned. He also pointed out that “world-class players like Kyle Walker will no longer be there,” a stark reminder that England’s golden generation is starting to fade.
And it wasn’t just the veterans in his crosshairs. Owen went on to question the current form of England’s younger stars too. “Even players like Foden are not at the top of their game compared to what they were a year or two ago,” he added, hinting at a stagnation that could cost England dearly when it matters most.
Defensive Concerns Mount
The ex-forward didn’t hold back on England’s defensive situation either — and his words will echo many fans’ private fears. “Defensively, I worry too. We used to have a lot of good defenders. Now I’m thinking — who’s going to play left-back? Who’s going to play centre-half? John Stones isn’t getting any younger.”
For a nation that once prided itself on solidity at the back, Owen’s assessment paints a worrying picture.
“We Were Better a Year or Two Ago”
His overall verdict was far from optimistic. “I think we were probably better a year or two ago. But a lot changes in football.”
Still, Owen didn’t completely rule out success — instead, he issued a challenge. For England to finally lift that long-awaited trophy, he believes Tuchel must spark a major upturn in performance and mentality.
Tuchel, appointed in late 2024, faces the monumental task of reshaping England’s mindset while balancing a squad that’s aging in key areas. Whether he can do what so many before him failed to achieve — well, as Owen himself might say, football has a funny way of proving everyone wrong.
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