As the 2026 FIFA World Cup is now precisely one year away, national teams across the globe are intensifying their preparations. The recent international break provided a crucial opportunity for squads to gauge their progress, whether through competitive qualifiers or friendly matches. Host nations – the United States, Mexico, and Canada – are on varied trajectories leading up to the tournament. While Mexico and Canada secured victories in their recent outings, the U.S. men`s national team (USMNT) faces significant challenges, entering the Gold Cup following four consecutive defeats, including a heavy 4-0 loss to Switzerland.
This streak marks the first time the USMNT has lost four games in a row since 2007. They have also now gone seven matches without a win against European opposition. Despite key players like Christian Pulisic being rested or involved in Club World Cup duties, the extent of these losses was unexpected. The team`s consistent struggles against top European sides persist regardless of coaching changes, prompting questions about the depth and quality of the player pool available.
Beyond the hosts, potential contenders for the World Cup title are starting to emerge. Spain and France are currently considered joint favorites by oddsmakers. Both nations boast a wealth of talent excelling at the club level and successfully translating that form to the international stage. Spain, the reigning European champions, are expected to feature prominently with young stars like 17-year-old Lamine Yamal, aiming for their first World Cup trophy since 2010. France, winners in 2018, can rely on prolific attackers such as Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele.
Thirteen teams, including the three host nations, have already secured their spots in the 2026 tournament. Among them are defending champions Argentina, led by Lionel Scaloni, who have maintained impressive form since lifting the trophy in 2022, even adapting to Lionel Messi`s occasional absences. Asia contributes two nations making their World Cup debut: Uzbekistan and Jordan.
The year ahead also holds intrigue regarding how several prominent club managers will fare in their roles leading national teams. Julian Nagelsmann gained experience with Germany at last year`s Euros, while the USMNT`s Pochettino, Brazil`s Carlo Ancelotti, and England`s Thomas Tuchel are highly respected figures transitioning to the international game, tasked with making a statement in 2026. Early results for this group are mixed: Brazil secured their first win under Ancelotti, while England had an unconvincing win over Andorra followed by a loss to Senegal.
Mini Transfer Window Wrap-up Ahead of Club World Cup
While the focus remains on the 2026 World Cup countdown, immediate attention shifts to the inaugural expanded Club World Cup, set to begin this Saturday. Participating clubs utilized a special mini transfer window created by FIFA to finalize their squads before the competition.
Manchester City were particularly active in this period, making significant signings. They acquired Rayan Ait-Nouri from Wolverhampton Wanderers and Rayan Cherki from Lyon, spending close to $50 million on each player. This activity demonstrates City`s financial strength for the second consecutive transfer window. Both players offer new tactical possibilities for manager Pep Guardiola, with Cherki seen by some as a potentially perfect fit. According to analyst James Benge, while Kevin De Bruyne`s creative impact is irreplaceable, Cherki`s output is remarkably close, highlighted by his high assist and expected assist rates in Europe`s top leagues last season. Described as a “ball progressing machine” effective at creating chances, Cherki`s versatility means his specific position might be less important than his overall ability to enhance the team.
Borussia Dortmund will feature a familiar name at the Club World Cup with the arrival of Jobe Bellingham, younger brother of Jude Bellingham. Jobe moved from Sunderland in a deal that could reach $43.4 million, making him Dortmund`s record signing. While his immediate impact is uncertain, a potential quarterfinal clash between Dortmund and Real Madrid (Jude`s current club) could be a notable storyline for the Bellingham brothers.
Saudi Pro League side Al-Hilal also made a notable move, securing N`Golo Kante on a short-term loan from Al-Ittihad. Despite ambitions for multiple high-profile transfers, this loan and the signing of manager Simone Inzaghi appear to be their primary significant additions for the Club World Cup, following earlier transfer sagas like the one involving Cristiano Ronaldo.
