The dream of a World Cup appearance remains very much alive for Ivan Toney, even as he continues to find the back of the net with remarkable consistency in Saudi Arabia. The 29-year-old Al Ahli striker currently leads the Saudi Pro League with 20 goals, surpassing even Cristiano Ronaldo, who has 18, a statistic that’s sure to fuel his hopes of a recall to the England squad under Thomas Tuchel ahead of this summer’s tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico. The competition for places is fierce, but Toney’s form is undeniable.
Toney’s journey to potentially featuring in the World Cup has been anything but straightforward. After a successful spell with Brentford, a move to Al Ahli raised eyebrows, but the striker has clearly thrived in the Saudi Pro League. His goalscoring exploits are not only outshining one of football’s all-time greats, but also serving as a potent reminder to Tuchel of his capabilities. The forward picked up a runners-up medal at Euro 2024, winning the last of his seven England caps in a friendly against Senegal in June of last year.
A Dream Within Reach
The possibility of representing his country on the biggest stage is a powerful motivator for Toney. “It would be a dream to play there,” he told Sky Sports News, reflecting on the prospect of being included in Tuchel’s squad. “Everybody dreams of that, and imagine if we were to win the World Cup? That would be for the country.” He acknowledged the magnitude of the occasion, admitting to having “these little visions of what could happen,” and expressing his gratitude should the opportunity arise.
While Toney harbors ambitions of playing a key role, he is realistic about the established hierarchy within the England team. He readily acknowledged Harry Kane, currently at Bayern Munich, as “the best finisher in football” and the undisputed number one striker. However, Toney is focused on maximizing his own performance and positioning himself as a valuable backup option. “My job is to keep scoring goals and hopefully that gives me the best chance of being there,” he stated.
Navigating a Career Shift
The decision to move to Al Ahli from Brentford in the summer of 2024 was a significant one, and one that prompted discussion. Toney admits the move wasn’t without its considerations, but he remains open to a potential return to the Premier League in the future. “I never say never,” he said. “I’ve goals I want to achieve here first, but in football, in life, you never know what’s around the corner. You just take it day-by-day, step-by-step.”
The Saudi Pro League has attracted a growing number of high-profile players in recent years, and Toney’s success there demonstrates the league’s increasing competitiveness. His ability to adapt and excel in a new environment speaks volumes about his professionalism and determination. The league’s growing profile could also provide a platform for other English players to showcase their talents.
Tuchel’s Squad Takes Shape
Thomas Tuchel’s England squad is beginning to take shape as the World Cup draws closer. Recent reports indicate that Tuchel has signed a new contract extension until 2028, providing stability and continuity for the national team. John Stones is also focused on securing his place in the squad, with his recent performances for Manchester City adding to his credentials. However, concerns remain over the fitness of Jude Bellingham, who is currently in a “race against time” to be fit for upcoming friendlies.
England’s path in the 2026 World Cup has also been determined, with the team drawn in a group alongside Spain, Croatia, and Czechia. The Nations League draw presents a challenging but exciting prospect for Tuchel’s side, and the team will need to be at their best to navigate a tricky group stage.
As Toney continues to score goals and impress in the Saudi Pro League, his chances of earning a place in Tuchel’s World Cup squad will undoubtedly increase. The coming months will be crucial as he strives to prove his worth and fulfill his dream of representing England on the world’s biggest stage. The next key date for Toney and the England hopefuls will be the announcement of Tuchel’s preliminary squad in May, a moment that will define the culmination of their efforts.
What do you think? Will Ivan Toney make the final England squad? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below.
