World Cup: Rio Ferdinand says only world‑class player in England squad, others teetering around

Manchester United legend and former England defender Rio Ferdinand has singled out the only “truly world‑class player” in the England squad for the 2026 World Cup.

The Three Lions began their campaign with a promising 4‑2 win over Croatia on Wednesday night, taking the top spot in Group L.

Although Harry Kane scored twice in the first half, England did not lead at halftime, as Marin Baturina and Petar Musa equalised for Croatia.

In the second half, England asserted their dominance, opening the scoreline with goals from Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford.

Thomas Tuchel’s side now looks to advance to the knockout stage when they meet Ghana on Tuesday next week, followed by a final Group L match against Panama.

Ferdinand expressed confidence in England’s performance against Croatia, noting signs that the Three Lions could progress deep into the tournament.

The former Manchester United star added that Tuchel’s squad has only one “truly world‑class player,” namely captain Kane.

Kane, who has already become England’s all‑time leading goalscorer, equalled Gary Lineker’s record as the nation’s top scorer in World Cups during the win over Croatia.

The 32‑year‑old Tottenham striker, who sits just behind Alan Shearer for Premier League goals, also enjoyed a standout season at Bayern Munich, netting 61 goals in 51 matches.

“Harry Kane is our only genuinely world‑class player right now,” six‑time Premier League winner Ferdinand said on his YouTube channel.

“There’s others teetering around it but he’s the absolutely world‑class player in the squad. If you’re looking at players who sit right at the top table and are there comfortably? He is that for England.”