The 2026 FIFA World Cup is just around the corner, and with it, the excitement of witnessing the world's best football players in action. But what if some of these stars could have played for England? Here's a look at some of the players who could have represented the Three Lions but chose otherwise.
The Stars Who Could Have Played for England
Erling Haaland (Norway)
Erling Haaland, the Manchester City striker, is a force to be reckoned with. Born in Leeds to a Norwegian father playing in the Premier League, Haaland could have been a natural fit for England. However, he moved to Norway at age three and went on to become a prolific goalscorer for the Norwegian national team, scoring 60 times in 53 games. His commitment to Norway is a testament to the power of cultural identity and the importance of representing one's heritage.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka (DR Congo)
Aaron Wan-Bissaka, a London-born defender, represented England at the under-20 and under-21 levels. However, he switched international allegiance to DR Congo in 2025, a decision that has sparked debate. The 28-year-old's choice highlights the complex web of international football loyalties and the personal connections that can shape a player's decision.
Antonee Robinson (USA)
Antonee Robinson, a product of the English football system, was born in Milton Keynes and raised on Merseyside. His father, born in England but raised in New York, gained American citizenship. Robinson committed to the USA in 2018, a decision that has seen him become a key player for the US national team. This case underscores the influence of family and personal connections in shaping international football allegiances.
Axel Tuanzebe (DR Congo)
Axel Tuanzebe, born in DR Congo but moving to England as a child, is a graduate of Manchester United's academy. He made one appearance for England Under-21s but chose to represent DR Congo. This decision reflects the player's personal connection to his birthplace and the desire to represent his roots.
Scott McTominay (Scotland)
Scott McTominay, a Lancashire-born Scotland international, has become a central player for his country. His career took off after switching to Napoli in 2024, where he was named Serie A player of the year in a title-winning debut season. McTominay's success with Scotland demonstrates the importance of cultural identity and the impact of personal connections in shaping a player's international career.
Felix Nmecha (Germany)
Felix Nmecha, the son of a German mother and a Nigerian father, was born in Hamburg but moved to England in 2007. He played for both Germany and England at youth international levels before committing to Germany. This decision reflects the player's personal connection to his heritage and the desire to represent his cultural roots.
Antoine Semenyo (Ghana)
Antoine Semenyo, born in London to Ghanaian parents, developed his football career exclusively in England. However, he has long been a supporter of the Ghana national side and made his first appearance for the Black Stars in 2022. Semenyo's decision highlights the influence of cultural identity and the importance of representing one's heritage.
Jamal Musiala (Germany)
Jamal Musiala, an attacking midfielder, moved to England at age seven and spent much of his childhood in the UK. He played for England from under-15 to under-21 levels but chose to represent Germany after moving to Bayern Munich in 2020. Musiala's decision reflects the power of personal connections and the influence of cultural identity.
Michael Olise (France)
Michael Olise, with a British-Nigerian father and French-Algerian mother, had a choice of four international sides. Born in London and coming through the English academy system, he opted to represent France. Olise's decision highlights the complex web of international football loyalties and the personal connections that can shape a player's decision.
Folarin Balogun (USA)
Folarin Balogun, born when his mother was on a trip to New York, could have played for England or Nigeria. He played for both the US and England at under-18 level and was a key player for England U21s. However, he committed to the USA, a decision influenced by public support and the perceived complexity of the path to England's senior side.
These players' decisions to represent other nations highlight the complex interplay of personal connections, cultural identity, and international football loyalties. As the 2026 World Cup approaches, it's a reminder of the diverse and fascinating world of international football.
