Michael Owen, the former famous striker, has predicted the nation that will claim the 2026 World Cup.
Michael Owen, the former renowned striker turned football analyst, believes the "Les Bleus"—the French national team—will win the 2026 World Cup. Meanwhile, his homeland, the "Three Lions" of England, will reach at best the semi-finals, while the "Die Mannschaft"—the German national team—will emerge as a dark horse to watch this year.
Previously, the "La Roja"—the Spanish national team—was favored to win the 2026 World Cup. However, Owen, who played in three World Cups during his career, chose France, asserting that the Les Bleus boast players with far superior individual skills compared to other teams.
"I think France is the best team in terms of individual talent. When you look at their players, they are more skilled than anyone else individually."
"Moreover, if they play as a team, they are the best and probably have the highest chance of becoming champions."
"As for England, I believe they will reach the quarter-finals or at most the semi-finals, but I feel Germany might perform well in this tournament."
"So, France is the team I choose; England will reach the quarter-finals or semi-finals, and Germany will be the dark horse."