The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, with competition set to begin on June 11 in Mexico City. A notable presence from Southampton is expected at this prestigious event, with 16 former Saints players and managers participating.
Saints Players Competing in the World Cup
Three current Saints players will represent their countries in the tournament held across the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Notably, Cyle Larin, currently on loan, has been selected for the Canadian squad. His inclusion marks an exciting opportunity as Canada hosts the World Cup.
Additionally, Ross Stewart’s impressive recent performances have secured him a spot on the Scotland team. He joins fellow former Saints players Che Adams and Angus Gunn in the squad, highlighting Scotland’s strong connection to Southampton.
Key Player Listings by Group
- Group A: Czech Republic, Mexico, South Africa, South Korea – No Saints connections.
- Group B: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Canada, Qatar, Switzerland
- Canada: Cyle Larin, Alfie Jones (Saints academy graduate).
- Group C: Brazil, Haiti, Morocco, Scotland
- Scotland: Angus Gunn, Che Adams, Ross Stewart.
- Group D: Australia, Paraguay, Turkey, USA
- USA: Mauricio Pochettino (former Saints manager).
- Group E: Curacao, Ecuador, Germany, Ivory Coast – No Saints connections.
- Group F: Japan, Netherlands, Sweden, Tunisia
- Japan: Yukinari Sugawara (currently on loan).
- Netherlands: Ronald Koeman (former Saints manager), Virgil van Dijk.
- Sweden: Graham Potter (former Saints coach).
- Tunisia: Yan Valery.
- Group G: Belgium, Egypt, Iran, New Zealand – No Saints connections.
- Group H: Cape Verde, Saudi Arabia, Spain – No Saints connections.
- Group I: France, Iraq, Norway, Senegal
- Senegal: Sadio Mane.
- Group J: Algeria, Argentina, Austria, Jordan
- Austria: Kevin Danso (previously on loan with Saints).
- Group K: Colombia, DR Congo, Portugal, Uzbekistan – No Saints connections.
- Group L: Croatia, England, Ghana, Panama
- Croatia: Duje Caleta-Car.
- England: Tino Livramento.
- Ghana: Kamaldeen Sulemana.
This World Cup represents a significant moment for former and current Southampton players, underlining their contributions on the global stage.
