Sixteen players from Manchester City are set to represent their countries at the 2026 FIFA World Cup following strong individual campaigns during the 2025/26 season.
The players head into the tournament after another competitive season under manager Pep Guardiola, with several members of the squad playing key roles in the club’s domestic and European performances.
Among the group is Ghana’s Antoine Semenyo, who joined Manchester City on January 7, 2026, from AFC Bournemouth in a mid-season move and went on to play a key role in their double-winning campaign.
Semenyo made an immediate impact in the second half of the season, scoring 17 Premier League goals and 20 goals in all competitions during the 2025/2026 season. He provided four assists in over 30 appearances. He added versatility across the front line, featuring both as a starter and rotational option in key matches as City pushed for silverware.
England’s squad includes James Trafford, Marc Guéhi, John Stones, and Nico O’Reilly. Stones remained an important figure in defence when fit, while Guéhi contributed three goals alongside consistent defensive performances across nearly 30 appearances.
O’Reilly emerged as one of City’s standout young players after scoring nine goals in more than 50 matches, with Trafford also providing depth in goal during cup and league competitions.
Portugal will rely on the experience of Rúben Dias, Bernardo Silva, and Matheus Nunes. Silva registered four goals and six assists in over 45 appearances, while Dias continued to anchor the defence and added two goals during the campaign.
Nunes contributed across midfield with a goal in more than 40 matches.
Croatia’s squad features Joško Gvardiol and Mateo Kovačić. Gvardiol combined defensive solidity with attacking support and scored twice during the season, while Kovačić maintained his role as a key midfield presence.
Norway forward Erling Haaland heads to the World Cup after another prolific campaign, finishing the season with 27 Premier League goals. This remarkable feat earned him the Golden Boot as the league’s top scorer, making it his third time winning the award in four seasons.
Spain midfielder Rodri continued to provide balance and control in midfield, remaining one of City’s most influential players despite limited direct attacking numbers.
during the Emirates FA Cup Final match between Chelsea and Manchester City at Wembley Stadium on May 16, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Shaun Brooks – CameraSport via Getty Images)
Belgium winger Jérémy Doku contributed five goals and five assists, while France midfielder Rayan Cherki enjoyed a breakout campaign with 4 goals and 12 assists.
Egypt international Omar Marmoush added important attacking contributions during limited appearances.
Switzerland defender Manuel Akanji spent the 2025/26 campaign on loan at Inter, helping the Milan giants to a league and cup double.
