England’s bronze finish leaves a mixed verdict on Tuchel’s World Cup squad

England finished third at the 2026 World Cup, beating France 6-4 in the bronze-medal match. It was the country’s best World Cup placing since 1966, though the campaign still ended with regret after a late semi-final collapse against Argentina.

Sky Sports’ ratings framed Jude Bellingham as England’s standout performer, giving him an 8 after a seven-goal tournament described as a record for an England player at a major event. Declan Rice, Bukayo Saka, Harry Kane, John Stones, Elliot Anderson, Dan Burn and Anthony Gordon were among those rated 7, reflecting a squad with several strong contributors rather than one clear supporting cast.

The more difficult judgments came around players who had limited influence or limited minutes. Marcus Rashford, Ollie Watkins, Noni Madueke and Ivan Toney were each rated 5, while Kobbie Mainoo, Trevoh Chalobah and Jordan Henderson were listed without a numerical mark because of little or no meaningful involvement.

For Thomas Tuchel’s England, the discussion now moves beyond individual scores. A bronze medal confirms progress, but the Argentina defeat and selection debates around players such as Saka and Mainoo will likely shape how this tournament is remembered by supporters.