Bellingham Ready to Shine as England Unveils Starting XI Against Albania
England wrap up their outstanding 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying journey as they head to Tirana to face Albania.
The Three Lions, who secured their World Cup spot last month, maintain a flawless qualifying record with seven consecutive victories and clean sheets under Thomas Tuchel's guidance. Following an uncertain beginning to the German manager's tenure, team spirit is remarkably positive looking toward next summer's competition.
England defeated Albania 2–0 in their previous encounter and are anticipated to claim another win on Sunday, particularly given their opponents have already secured a play-off spot. With victories in all seven previous matches against Albania, an eighth success appears probable.
Here's how Tuchel might set up his team for England's concluding match of 2025.
England Predicted Lineup vs. Albania (4-2-3-1)
GK: Jordan Pickford—Pickford has maintained 10 straight clean sheets for England, last allowing a goal against Greece more than a year ago. Nevertheless, he's only faced three shots on target throughout seven World Cup qualifying matches.
RB: Djed Spence—James delivered another excellent performance in the 2–0 win over Serbia on Thursday evening, but the injury-susceptible right-back doesn't need to be risked for the Albanian trip. Spence appears set to take his place.
CB: Trevoh Chalobah—Konsa was another standout performer against Serbia as England's defense continues to shine, but Chalobah could bring changes to the center of defense. He earned his senior international debut under Tuchel in June.
CB: John Stones—Stones no longer holds a guaranteed starting position at Manchester City, but he appears increasingly likely to feature in Tuchel's starting eleven during international windows. The calm 31-year-old brings experience and leadership to the defense.
LB: Nico O'Reilly—O'Reilly impressed on his debut against Serbia with his forward runs and notable athleticism, and he might retain his spot with limited left-back alternatives available. He has a genuine opportunity to establish himself before next summer's tournament.
DM: Elliot Anderson—Anderson has been outstanding since joining the England squad and starting lineup. Another dynamic midfield display on Thursday impressed as he solidifies his role alongside Declan Rice.
DM: Declan Rice—Even in less significant fixtures, Rice remains almost always a certain starter for England. Tuchel might choose Jordan Henderson or Adam Wharton if he decides to rest the Arsenal midfielder, but Rice's dependability makes him likely to appear in every game.
RW: Bukayo Saka—The Arsenal forward netted a beautiful volley against Serbia and should start again in Tirana after alleviating injury worries. Saka is regaining his form following an injury-affected campaign start.
AM: Jude Bellingham—Rogers started ahead of Bellingham on Thursday and the Real Madrid talent also competes with in-form Phil Foden for the No.10 role—plus the ongoing battle with Cole Palmer. Tuchel might reinstate Bellingham to the starting eleven against Albania, though.
LW: Eberechi Eze—Eze made it two Arsenal scorers at Wembley Stadium against Serbia, delivering a spectacular finish to seal victory in the final moments. He may have earned a starting position ahead of Marcus Rashford.
ST: Harry Kane—Kane continues to be undroppable for England as he pursues more international goals. The Bayern Munich striker couldn't find the net against Serbia, but will be confident of adding to his tally in Albania.
