Aston Villa hero could star in 2026 World Cup opener as FIFA make announcement
Aston Villa look set to be well represented at the FIFA World Cup in 2026.
Villa are fighting near the top of the Premier League right now and could be set for a blockbuster end to the season at Villa Park.
Many stars will have one eye on the summer as the World Cup is set to kick off in America, Mexico and Canada.
Morgan Rogers looks set to earn an England call-up after a stellar run under Thomas Tuchel, while Ollie Watkins faces an uncertain future with the Three Lions.
Watkins may not go to the World Cup, but it does look as if the Villans could see one ace feature in the opening game of the tournament.
John McGinn could feature in 2026 World Cup opener vs Mexico
John McGinn is set to go to the World Cup with Scotland after earning qualification on the final day of the qualification group stage.
A 4-2 win for the Tartan Army against Denmark at Hampden sparked wild scenes as the Scots booked a place at the showpiece tournament for the first time since 1998.
The Villa captain is bound to be a starter for Steve Clarke’s side in North America, with his first showing potentially set to come in the tournament opener.
FIFA revealed the procedures for the FIFA World Cup 2026 on 25 November, which will see Mexico begin the summer with a clash against one of 11 teams.
It could well be Scotland, but they won’t know until the draw is completed on 5 December and groups are chosen.
Should McGinn’s side be selected alongside El Tri, the Villa skipper is likely to play a role in the opening clash of the 2026 World Cup.
Evann Guessand could also open 2026 World Cup
If it isn’t the Scot, it could be Evann Guessand starting the summer tournament as a representative of B6.
Ivory Coast is another potential opponent for Mexico that could be prepped for the opening ceremony, with the 24-year-old possibly set to be involved.
If the Elephants are drawn to play the opener, it would be great to see Villa’s summer signing feature in some capacity.
The prospect of starting at a World Cup could be the perfect goal for Guessand to aim for after a generally poor start to life at Villa Park.
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