Three unexpected West Ham players who could star at 2026 World Cup
West Ham will likely have numerous players at the upcoming 2026 World Cup.
Despite West Ham’s recent poor form in the Premier League, this has not stopped many of their stars from being called up for their nations.
Multiple players have had mixed fortunes during the international break, with Tomas Soucek putting in a poor display for Czechia.
However, many players are now on track to qualify or have qualified for the upcoming summer tournament.
Now, while players like Lucas Paqueta will be expected to participate, West Ham Zone looks at three unexpected players who could reach the World Cup.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka – Democratic Republic of the Congo
Despite previously being called up to the England squad, Aaron Wan-Bissaka opted to represent the Democratic Republic of the Congo in 2025 after failing to win a Three Lions cap.
Since making his debut, the right-back has featured regularly for the African nation and now has six caps.
On Sunday, the nation took a massive step toward qualifying for the World Cup as they beat Nigeria on penalties to reach the inter-confederation playoffs, which will take place in March.
Wan-Bissaka was instrumental against Nigeria to ensure that the Democratic Republic of the Congo reached this stage.
If successful in the playoffs, it will be the first time the Central African nation has reached the World Cup since 1974.
Andy Irving – Scotland
One nation that has now qualified for the World Cup is Scotland.
The Tartan Army overcame Denmark 4-2 on Tuesday in a dramatic match to win their group.
Part of the Scotland squad was Andy Irving, who was an unused substitute in both of Scotland’s matches during the November break.
Irving has been poor for West Ham in recent weeks, and it was a bit of a surprise that he was called up.
However, the midfielder will be hoping that he can turn his form around and make the squad as Scotland prepare for their first World Cup since 1998.
Callum Marshall – Northern Ireland
Callum Marshall has established himself as a great upcoming talent at West Ham.
The striker was given his Premier League debut by Nuno Espirito Santo earlier this season as he burst onto the first-team scene.
However, the striker has already established a strong international career, with Marshall being a regular for Northern Ireland.
Like Wan-Bissaka, Northern Ireland’s World Cup chances now depend on the playoffs in March.
The nation are aiming to get to their fourth-ever World Cup, after last qualifying in 1986.
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