Former England captain John Terry believes Thomas Tuchel’s squad is stronger than Argentina and says the Three Lions are ready to end 60 years of World Cup hurt

Former England captain John Terry has voiced strong confidence in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad, declaring in Zurich on Sunday that the Three Lions have the quality to win the FIFA World Cup and insisting the current side is superior to reigning champions Argentina in terms of individual talent.

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Speaking on the latest episode of FIFA’s official podcast ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Terry said England have steadily built experience on the biggest stage and now possess the remarkable belief required to secure a first World Cup title since Sir Alf Ramsey’s team triumphed in 1966.

“I’m not worried about Argentina, if I’m honest,” Terry said. “I don’t look at Argentina and sit here being worried about them being better than us. I think, man-for-man, we are better than Argentina.”

The former Chelsea captain also pointed to what he believes is a growing sense of momentum around Tuchel’s squad, suggesting recent tournament experiences have strengthened the team’s mentality.

“You know what I like about this England side at the minute? We’ve had big moments,” Terry added.

“We’ve got a good side, but it feels like everything’s going for us. It feels like it is England’s time.”

Terry’s comments reflect the heightened optimism surrounding England following a series of deep runs at major tournaments.

The Three Lions reached the semi-finals of the 2018 FIFA World Cup before finishing runners-up at UEFA Euro 2020 and Euro 2024, reinforcing their status as one of Europe’s leading international sides despite falling short of lifting a major trophy.

Tuchel, who succeeded Gareth Southgate as England manager, has been tasked with converting that consistency into silverware.

The German coach inherited a squad featuring experienced leaders alongside emerging stars, with expectations growing ahead of the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Argentina remain one of England’s principal rivals after capturing the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and continuing to perform strongly under Lionel Scaloni. Terry’s assessment that England possess greater strength player for player is therefore likely to fuel debate as both nations prepare for another shot at football’s biggest prize.

Although England have frequently entered major tournaments among the favourites, the nation’s only World Cup success remains the famous 4-2 victory over West Germany at Wembley Stadium in 1966.

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Successive generations have come close without ending that long wait, making Terry’s belief that “it is England’s time” especially significant as anticipation builds for the 2026 competition.