Arsene Wenger reveals the one key reason why England are not World Cup favourites

England have the quality to win the 2026 World Cup – but they aren’t the favourites to win the global tournament.

That’s the view of legendary manager Arsene Wenger, who believes the Three Lions lack one key component needed to end their 60-year trophy drought.

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Thomas Tuchel‘s side are aiming to win their first major tournament since 1966 after back-to-back final defeats at the Euros.

Meanwhile, his predecessor Gareth Southgate guided England to their third-ever World Cup semi-final in 2018.

Having come through qualifying with a perfect record of eight wins from eight without conceding, England are one of four seeded nations.

They join Spain, Argentina and France in receiving the status from FIFA for the group stage draw.

As fourth seeds, the Three Lions will not face third seeds France until the final if both teams win their group.

England are also able to avoid both Spain and Argentina until at least the semi-finals provided they also top their pools in the opening stage.

Despite their impressive qualifying campaign, Wenger believes another nation is ahead of the 1966 winners in the hunt for glory.

Asked if England are favourites to win the World Cup, he explained: “In my opinion, (England) will be one of the favourites of the World Cup.

“They are always nearly there to win it. The semi-final, quarter-final, final. And they have to make the next step. They have the quality to do it.

“I still believe in Europe, personally, by trying to be as objective as possible, that France is the super favourite, just for one reason.

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“It’s the country that has more world-class strikers than any other country in the world.

“And by having four knockout stage (matches), to have such a bench and such a quality on the bench, will make a difference.”

France have reached the final of the last two World Cups in 2018 and 2022.

In Russia seven years ago, Les Bleus beat Croatia to be crowned world champions for a second time.

However, they were unable to repeat the feat in Qatar, losing on penalties to Argentina in the showpiece clash.

As for Didier Deschamps’ attacking options, his latest squad in November was spearheaded by captain Kylian Mbappe.

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The Real Madrid forward was one of four strikes selected alongside Hugo Ekitike, Jean-Philippe Mateta and Christopher Nkunku.

In contrast, Tuchel named Harry Kane as his only recognised striker for England’s final two World Cup qualifiers last month.

It came as Ollie Watkins was left out due to concerns over his fitness.

The 2026 World Cup’s expansion to 48 teams will see countries play an additional knockout stage match compared to previous editions.

A total of 32 teams will advance from the group stage and into the second round of the tournament.

The remaining nations must then come through four matches to reach the final in East Rutherford, New Jersey on July 19.