Ben Chilwell Targets 2026 World Cup Spot After Chelsea “Bomb Squad” Exile

Chelsea defender Ben Chilwell is targeting a place in England’s 2026 FIFA World Cup squad. The 28-year-old left back is now rebuilding his career at French club Strasbourg. His comeback mission follows a difficult period where he was exiled from the Chelsea first team.

According to BBC Sport, Chilwell was part of a group of players deemed surplus to requirements by manager Enzo Maresca. This group was infamously labeled the “bomb squad.” Chilwell’s journey back to form is now fueled by a desire to prove his doubters wrong.

From Chelsea Outcast to Strasbourg Key Player

Chilwell left Chelsea on loan for Crystal Palace in January 2025. He returned to Stamford Bridge last summer only to be placed back in the “bomb squad.” A permanent move to Strasbourg followed, offering a fresh start.

A ten-minute phone call with Strasbourg manager Liam Rosenior convinced Chilwell of the move. He has since become a key figure for the Ligue 1 side. Chilwell has featured in nine of their 13 matches, starting seven of them.

England Door Remains Open Under Former Boss

England manager Thomas Tuchel has kept the door open for a national team recall. Tuchel managed Chilwell during their triumphant UEFA Champions League campaign with Chelsea. This connection provides a clear pathway back to the international stage.

Chilwell has already held conversations with the England manager since his appointment. The defender stated that a call-up is “not out of the equation.” This has solidified his ambition to compete for a spot at the 2026 World Cup.

The left back missed the 2022 World Cup in Qatar due to a serious hamstring injury. He sees the next tournament as a chance for ultimate redemption. Chilwell believes achieving this goal would be the “biggest middle finger” to those who wrote him off.

Ben Chilwell’s journey from the Chelsea “bomb squad” to a potential World Cup spot is a powerful narrative of resilience. His performances in France will be closely watched by England management as the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign approaches.

Thought you’d like to know

Why was Ben Chilwell in Chelsea’s “bomb squad”?

He was deemed surplus to requirements by manager Enzo Maresca. This was part of a larger squad overhaul by the Chelsea leadership to reshape the team.

Which club does Ben Chilwell play for now?

Chilwell currently plays for Ligue 1 side RC Strasbourg. He joined the French club on a permanent transfer after his Chelsea exit.

Who is the current manager of the England national team?

Thomas Tuchel is the current England manager. He was previously Chilwell’s coach at Chelsea, winning the Champions League together.

How many games has Chilwell played for Strasbourg?

He has featured in nine of Strasbourg’s 13 league matches this season. Chilwell has been in the starting lineup for seven of those appearances.

Why did Chilwell miss the 2022 World Cup?

He suffered a torn hamstring just two weeks before the tournament began. The severe injury ruled him out of selection for the England squad.