The 2026 World Cup has cast a long shadow over the Premier League, with its impact on teams ranging from injuries to transfers. As the tournament draws to a close, the focus shifts to the new domestic season, leaving clubs to assess the effects of the World Cup on their squads. Arsenal, for instance, faces an anxious wait over the fitness of William Saliba, who suffered a back issue, and the potential loss of Gabriel Martinelli, who showed flashes of quality for Brazil. Aston Villa's transfer plans were disrupted by Amadou Onana's ACL injury, while Chelsea's squad is bolstered by the arrival of Morgan Rogers and the potential departure of Trevoh Chalobah.
The tournament has also had an impact on individual players. Leandro Trossard's fine form for Belgium, which included a goal and an assist, led to his move to Besiktas for £15m. Meanwhile, Igor Thiago's lacklustre performance for Brazil, coupled with his stellar domestic season for Brentford, has raised questions about his confidence heading into the new season. For some players, the World Cup has been a launchpad for their careers, such as Ben Gannon-Doak, who impressed for Scotland, and Rayan, who claimed an assist for Brazil.
However, the tournament has also had its fair share of setbacks. Jordan Henderson's broken wrist, suffered during England's celebrations, will keep him out of action for Brentford. And for some players, the World Cup has been a disappointment, like Aurele Amenda, who was an unused substitute for Switzerland, and Haji Wright, who played for the USA but failed to help them progress beyond the last 16.
The World Cup has also had an impact on the transfer market, with clubs looking to capitalize on the form of players who have impressed. Manchester City, for instance, has expressed interest in Yan Diomande and Bradley Barcola, both of whom impressed for Ivory Coast and France respectively. And for some players, the tournament has reignited transfer talk, like Iliman Ndiaye, who was at the centre of transfer speculation before the World Cup.
As the tournament draws to a close, the focus shifts to the Premier League, with clubs looking to build on the lessons learned from the World Cup. The impact of the tournament on the league will be felt for years to come, as players return to their clubs with renewed energy and a fresh perspective. The new season promises to be an exciting one, with the World Cup having left its mark on the Premier League in ways both big and small.
