Euro 2028: BBC Sport predicts England starting lineup
England co-hosts Euro 2028 starting June 9, 2028. BBC Sport predicts Thomas Tuchel's starting XI blending veterans and rising talents.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- Euro 2028 kicks off on June 9, 2028, with England as co-hosts.
- Thomas Tuchel's side must earn qualification as hosts lack automatic spots.
- BBC Sport chief football writer Phil McNulty outlines a predicted starting XI.
Less than two months after Spain celebrated their World Cup triumph, the next major international tournament cycle is officially underway. The European Championship will kick off on June 9, 2028, co-hosted by England, Scotland, Wales, and the Republic of Ireland.
Despite serving as co-hosts, Thomas Tuchel's men are not granted an automatic spot in the tournament and must earn their qualification on the pitch. The journey begins immediately as England prepare to face Spain in their upcoming UEFA Nations League opener on Saturday.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
Phil McNulty, BBC Sport's chief football writer, has shared his expert predictions for England's starting lineup for the tournament's opening match in the summer of 2028, noting that the core group largely mirrors the squad from the recent World Cup.
In goal, Jordan Pickford is expected to retain the number one spot at age 34, though James Trafford will apply pressure. Meanwhile, the right-back position remains the primary tactical question mark, with nine different players having started there since September 2024, opening the door for contenders like Tino Livramento or Archie Gray.
"Jude Bellingham ended any arguments, such as they were, about his class and place in the team with a brilliant World Cup."
Phil McNulty
In midfield, Jude Bellingham has cemented his place following an exceptional World Cup campaign. Up front, captain Harry Kane—who will be 34 years and 317 days old by kickoff—is backed to lead the line on home soil, alongside Bukayo Saka and emerging prospect Rio Ngumoha.
Co-hosting Euro 2028 presents a massive opportunity for England to capture a major trophy on home turf, building on their recent success of reaching a World Cup semi-final and a European Championship final. Analysts suggest keeping the established core together offers the strongest foundation for success.
Source: BBC Sport
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