The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off on June 11 across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Forty-eight teams, sixteen host cities – and a massive chunk of the best talent comes straight from the English Premier League. So, let’s check out five EPL stars ready to make noise in North America.
1. Erling Haaland – Norway’s Goal Machine Finally Gets His World Cup
Norway hadn’t played in a World Cup since 1998. Erling Haaland changed that single-handedly. The Manchester City striker demolished European qualifying with 16 goals in eight matches, scoring in every single game. His brace against Italy in Milan sealed a 4-1 win and punched Norway’s ticket.
The 25-year-old also became the fastest player ever to hit 50 international goals, reaching the milestone in just 46 appearances – and Harry Kane needed 71. With Haaland leading the line, Norway suddenly looks like a genuine dark horse. Bookmakers have him at +1400 for the Golden Boot, which feels like a steal given his qualifying numbers.
Speaking of odds, betting on the World Cup seems to be more popular than ever. Well, this tournament consistently ranks among the most wagered-on events globally, and fans are already locking in their picks months before kick-off.
2. Mohamed Salah – Egypt’s Record-Breaker on a Mission
Mohamed Salah dragged Egypt back to the World Cup with nine goals in African qualifying. His double against Djibouti sealed qualification and broke the all-time African World Cup qualifying record. He now sits on 20 goals in that competition alone, passing Didier Drogba, Samuel Eto’o, and Islam Slimani.
The Liverpool forward missed Qatar 2022 entirely. Egypt failed to qualify after Salah’s penalty shootout heartbreak against Senegal – yet, this time feels different. At 33, Salah knows this might be his last real shot at World Cup glory. Egypt conceded just twice in 10 qualifiers, so don’t sleep on them.
3. Bukayo Saka – England’s Most Reliable Attacker
England cruised through qualifying without conceding a single goal – and Bukayo Saka played a huge part in that. The Arsenal winger has 14 goals and nine assists in 48 international caps, and his volley against Serbia in November was pure class.
Thomas Tuchel trusts Saka completely – the 24-year-old starts almost every meaningful game and delivers when it matters. England sits at +600 to win the whole thing, second favorite behind Spain.
4. Virgil van Dijk – Dutch Captain Making History
Virgil van Dijk just broke Frank de Boer’s record for most appearances as Netherlands captain – he’s now worn the armband 72 times. The Liverpool defender led his country to a 4-0 win over Lithuania that sealed World Cup qualification.
At 34, van Dijk has hinted this could be his final tournament with the national team. His leadership anchors the Dutch defense, and Ronald Koeman builds everything around him.
5. Cole Palmer – Chelsea’s Golden Boy Eyes Global Stage
Cole Palmer won the Golden Ball at the 2025 Club World Cup after scoring twice in the final against PSG. The 23-year-old has dealt with injuries recently, but when healthy, he’s one of the most creative attackers in world football.
Palmer scored 22 Premier League goals in his breakout 2023-24 season and followed it up with 15 more last campaign. Bookmakers list him at +5000 for the Golden Boot – long odds, but Palmer thrives when doubted.
