The Etihad Goes Global: Manchester City’s Record World Cup Presence
Manchester City is a club accustomed to breaking records, and even at the 2026 World Cup, a tournament reserved for national teams, the Sky Blues make their presence felt.
City leads all clubs worldwide in the number of players contributing to the tournament, not just in the Premier League. It’s the clearest possible statement about the depth of talent Pep Guardiola has assembled at the Etihad.
List of Manchester City Players in the World Cup
Whether you’re looking for the World Cup 2026 bracket explained or simply want to know which Sky Blues will be in action across Canada, the USA, and Mexico, here’s the list of Manchester City players in the World Cup.
England
Thomas Tuchel called up four Manchester City players: James Trafford, Marc Guéhi, Nico O’Reilly, and John Stones, though Stones departed the club when his contract expired, ending ten years at the Etihad. Guéhi has established himself as the heart of England’s defense and could line up alongside Stones at the back.
Trafford travels as the third-choice goalkeeper, while O’Reilly is the youngest of the group and one of the most versatile, capable of operating as a left-back or in midfield.
Portugal
The core of Portugal’s national identity runs straight through the Etihad. Rúben Dias, Matheus Nunes, and Bernardo Silva, who also left the club at the end of his contract but remains one of the most beloved figures in the club’s recent history, are all players from Manchester City who represent the Seleção.
Netherlands
Nathan Aké and Tijjani Reijnders are part of the Dutch squad. Aké’s place in Koeman’s starting eleven is uncertain at 30, having slipped down the selection order. Reijnders, by contrast, looks to have secured his spot after featuring in the majority of qualifying matches.
Croatia
Joško Gvardiol and Mateo Kovačić both dealt with injuries and recovery spells during a difficult season, but both are fit and available for a Croatian side that will need their experience in what could be a farewell tournament for several veterans.
Ghana
Antoine Semenyo, one of Etihad’s newest arrivals, is expected to play a central role for the Black Stars as they navigate a demanding group. Expectations are high for the winger to be a difference-maker.
Norway
One of the most anticipated World Cup debuts belongs to Erling Haaland, as a golden generation finally delivered Norway’s return to the tournament. The world will be watching.
France
Rayan Cherki arrives at his first World Cup as part of one of the favorites to lift the trophy, coming off the bench for a French squad that is stacked at every position.
Spain
Rodri arrives wearing the captain’s armband for a Spain side that looks as competitive and cohesive as any they’ve produced in years.
Belgium
Jeremy Doku is hoping this tournament finally cements his status as the undisputed pillar of the Belgian attack.
Egypt
Omar Marmoush makes his World Cup debut carrying the expectations of a nation hoping he can lead Egypt on a deep run.
Algeria
Rayan Aït-Nouri heads to the tournament after an unconvincing season at the Etihad, where he never managed to nail down a starting spot in Guardiola’s lineup.
Uzbekistan
Abdukodir Khusanov is the country’s hero. At just 22, he’s already one of the most iconic figures in Uzbek football and one of the Manchester City players at the World Cup.
Which Manchester City Players Have Previous World Cup Experience?
Several City players arrive with significant tournament pedigree. Mateo Kovačić is the most experienced of the group, heading into his fourth consecutive World Cup (2014, 2018, 2022, and 2026). John Stones and Rúben Dias have each appeared at three World Cups, while Nathan Aké, Matheus Nunes, Rodri, and Jeremy Doku are all heading into their second tournament.
Which Manchester City Players Could Meet in a World Cup Final?
Several City teammates will have to set club loyalties aside entirely. Rayan Cherki could face Haaland in the group stage, with France and Norway sharing a group. Doku and Marmoush are also set to clash. But the most compelling head-to-head of all may be England vs Croatia, a matchup that puts multiple Etihad teammates on opposite sides of the pitch.
Which Manchester City Player Is Most Likely to Win the Golden Boot?
Haaland is the leading candidate. His goalscoring record speaks for itself, and a first World Cup appearance tends to bring out the best in players with something to prove on the biggest stage.
Which Manchester City Player Has the Best World Cup Record Entering the Tournament?
Rodri enters with the strongest credentials, captain of a Spain side that arrives in North America as reigning European champions and one of the genuine favorites to go all the way.
