The 2026 World Cup is on the horizon and there are already plenty of intriguing narratives brewing.
Read on as we look at three major talking points ahead of the highly anticipated showpiece in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Pochettino Eager to Deliver for the US on Home Soil
The United States appointed Mauricio Pochettino as manager after his surprise dismissal from Chelsea and tasked him with galvanising their promising squad.
America have several top players including Christian Pulisic, Antonee Robinson, Weston McKennie, Tyler Adams and Giovanni Reyna. Unfortunately, Gregg Berhalter could not get a tune out of them.
The US took a punt on a manager with a reputation for playing attacking football and nurturing young players. However, it remains to be seen whether this bet will pay off.
Pochettino has made an unconvincing start. He has lost three of his eight games in charge, including successive defeats against Canada and Panama.
His football thrives on graft, running and winning duels. The US have not shown that aggression and their fans are rightly worried they will not put it all together next year.
Incessant reports linking Pochettino with a return to Tottenham Hotspur are distracting. He must focus on turning potential into a winning unit, but there is still time to get his ideas across.
New Zealand Ready to Punch Above Their Weight in North America
New Zealand powered through their opponents in Oceania during qualifying, but there are questions about whether they can deliver on the grand stage.
Facing lowly neighbours is different from the World Cup, where they will be up against global football juggernauts.
New Zealand will need a different strategy to navigate the group stage. They have smothered opponents from the Oceania Football Confederation, but will likely adopt a more cautious approach.
There is reason for optimism defensively, with young Reading centre-half Tyler Bindon forming a terrific partnership with stalwart Michael Boxall.
New Zealand will rely on captain and talisman Chris Wood in attack. He has scored 34 goals in 74 appearances and will lead the line in 2026.
Wood has bagged 19 goals in the Premier League this term and will be among the bookmakers’ favourites to win the Golden Boot at the World Cup.
Many football betting platforms will be inundated with wagers from Kiwi bettors backing Wood to finish as the top goalscorer next summer.
His ability in front of goal could make New Zealand a decent bet to at least reach the knockout stage, particularly if they are handed a favourable draw.
Carlo Ancelotti Could Lead Brazil to an Elusive Sixth Title
Real Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti will leave the club after an underwhelming campaign and he is the odds-on favourite to take charge of Brazil.
They have been trying to appoint Ancelotti for several years, but the stars are now aligning for the former AC Milan and Juventus boss to take the job.
Brazil are desperate for a manager with his pedigree. Recently dismissed manager Dorival Junior endured a torrid tenure despite the incredible talent at his disposal.
The Samba Kings are fourth in the South American qualifying table following their humiliating 4-1 loss to arch-rivals Argentina. They are in danger of missing out if they do not get their act together.
Ancelotti can be the man to finally galvanise Brazil. He is already familiar with numerous players including Vinicius Junior, Rodrygo Goes, Endrick and Eder Militao.
Brazil could evolve into a more balanced side under Ancelotti, combining South American flair with European pragmatism. He could give them the tools they need to win close knockout games again.
The South American giants have been chasing an elusive sixth World Cup title since 2002. Having Ancelotti in charge could be the catalyst they need to secure the trophy.
