RC Strasbourg defender Ben Chilwell (28) has revealed he is targeting a return to the England squad for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 in the US, Mexico and Canada, in an interview with BBC Sport. The 28-year-old is no stranger to Three Lions head coach Thomas Tuchel – the German was manager during the former Leicester City defender’s time at Chelsea.

Chilwell has since moved to Ligue 1 and found success under the management of fellow countryman Liam Rosenior. The England international swapped West London for the Alsace region of France during the summer transfer window and hasn’t looked back. He has featured 9 times for his new club since arriving at the Stade de la Meinau on a free transfer. Despite changing clubs, the Englishman is still a player under the same ownership. 

Chilwell targeting Tuchel reunion 

Asked about the prospect of representing his country at the World Cup, the left-back said, “What a story it would be if I went to the World Cup after I was in the bomb squad and everyone had counted me out 12 months prior.” He added, “It would just be the biggest middle finger to so many people, which to me is a motivation. Chelsea was honest with me, and there’s no resentment, but of course I’ve got an ego, so it would be a nice feeling to prove some people wrong”.

The defender has made 21 appearances for his country and scored a solitary goal. Although he is an experienced international, the former Crystal Palace loanee hasn’t played for England since 2024 and is yet to be called up by his former manager.