He snubbed Nigeria for England - Now he's desperate to play at 2026 World Cup

AC Milan defender Fikayo Tomori, who decided to represent England over Nigeria has expressed his ambition to be part of Thomas Tuchel’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The 27-year-old central defender, now entering his fifth season at San Siro, addressed his international aspirations during a press conference in Singapore on Monday, where Milan is currently on a pre-season tour.

Tomori, speaking alongside Rossoneri manager Massimiliano Allegri, acknowledged that the 2024-25 season fell short of AC Milan's lofty standards.

“At a club like Milan, last season wasn’t what we wanted it to be. So, this season has to be better. We’re already looking forward to starting the season,” Tomori said.

He added, “We have a good test against Arsenal on Wednesday. Qualifying for the Champions League is obviously somewhere that Milan has to be. After that we’ll see. We go into every game looking to win and obviously if we win every single game, we lift a trophy at the end of the season.

“First things first, we just have to focus on the Wednesday game, prepare tactically and physically, like the Mister said. We look forward to the season and trying to achieve our goals.”

Tomori, who last featured for the Three Lions in October 2023, revealed that he has had direct discussions with England manager Thomas Tuchel.

He understands the path to a World Cup spot lies in consistent, top-level performances for his club.

“Every season is important. When it’s a World Cup season, things are a little bit different. Every player wants to play for their country, every player wants to play in the World Cup. There’s a different feeling maybe, but I’m just focused on trying to get ready for the season,” Tomori explained.

He continued, “I know that if I do well for Milan, then I have a good chance of making a squad. I spoke to (Thomas) Tuchel at the end of last season, before the international break at the end of the season, and he just said I need to keep doing what I’m doing, keep on improving, and I’m sure if Milan does well as a whole and if I do well individually, then I have a good chance of going. Of course I have my eye on it because I’ve never been, but it would be a really proud moment for sure.”

Milan prepares for pre-season friendlies against Arsenal on Wednesday, Liverpool on Saturday, and Perth Glory next week in Australia.