All 15 Arsenal representatives have safely navigated the group stage of the 2026 World Cup, with the entire Gunners contingent progressing to the last 32 as the tournament moves into its knockout phase.
The north London club began the tournament with more players involved than all but Manchester City, Bayern Munich and Paris Saint Germain, and each of those 15 still harbours ambitions of lifting the trophy in North America this summer.
Brazil Lead Monday’s Action
The first Arsenal representatives in action will be Gabriel Magalhães and Gabriel Martinelli, with Brazil facing Japan in Houston on Monday after topping their group with seven points. The commanding centre back started all three group games, while Martinelli has made two substitute appearances.
Later that evening, Kai Havertz’s Germany will look to bounce back from their defeat to Ecuador when they tackle Paraguay in Foxborough. The forward has scored twice at the finals, having started all three matches for Die Mannschaft.
Tuesday’s Gunners Collision
Tuesday sees Martin Ødegaard aim to lead Norway against the Ivory Coast, having been rested for their final group game against France with qualification already secured. The Norwegian captain will be crucial to his nation’s hopes of advancing further.
The day also features a direct Arsenal collision when William Saliba’s France face Viktor Gyökeres’ Sweden in New Jersey. The centre back was also rested against Norway, while the Swedish striker has played every minute of his nation’s campaign, scoring once.
Later that evening, Piero Hincapié’s Ecuador will look to capitalise on the momentum of reaching this stage when they face co hosts Mexico at the Azteca Stadium. The defender has started all three group games, playing a key role in Ecuador’s stunning come from behind victory over Germany that secured their qualification.
England’s Wednesday Showdown
Wednesday evening sees England face DR Congo in Atlanta, with Bukayo Saka hoping to start after making an impact in their final group game against Panama. Declan Rice is expected to return after being rested for that fixture, while Noni Madueke has featured in all three matches and Eberechi Eze has made two appearances from the bench.
Leandro Trossard’s Belgian Charge
Belgium, who Leandro Trossard helped top the group with a brace in their 5-1 victory over New Zealand, face Senegal in Seattle. The winger will hope to start his fourth consecutive match at the tournament as Roberto Martínez’s side aim for a deep run.
Spanish Trio Complete the Set
Thursday sees Arsenal’s Spanish contingent, Mikel Merino, Martín Zubimendi and David Raya aim to guide La Roja past Austria in Los Angeles, with the victors advancing to a last 16 meeting with either Portugal or Croatia. Merino has made three appearances to his name, while Zubimendi and Raya are still awaiting their first minutes of the finals.
