Football legend Paul Gascoigne has a message for England's young stars ahead of the 2026 World Cup: enjoy every minute and express yourselves on the pitch. The 59-year-old, who became a global sensation at Italia '90, reflected on his own experiences and offered advice to emerging talents like Jude Bellingham (22), Nico O'Reilly (21), and Anthony Gordon (25).
Gazza's Advice: Play with Freedom
In an exclusive interview, Gascoigne said: 'I was 22 when I was picked for England and just turned 23 at Italia '90. I loved football and I just loved every minute of the World Cup. It was football, football, football. Training every day and just being at the tournament - we had an incredible team.' He urged young players: 'Just go out and play, express yourselves. Play your football and don't be afraid to take players on.'
Confidence in Any Conditions
Regarding the heat and humidity in the US, Gazza joked: 'I wouldn't care if it was played in a desert. I would beat the camels. They'd get the hump. But I would play in the Sahara if I had to.' He also offered straightforward advice on penalty shootouts, referencing Arsenal's Champions League final defeat: 'Forget the little dance before you take it. Make your mind up where you are going to put it, stick to it and get your foot through it.'
Comparing Eras: 1990 vs Today
Gascoigne believes the 1990 team was the best he played in, with world-class players and great team spirit. He draws parallels between Harry Kane and Gary Lineker, and insists today's young talents have every chance for World Cup success if they show bravery. 'I think the 1990 team was the best England side I played in. There were world class players all over the pitch. We had great team spirit and that is what they will need in America.'
Personal Life and New Ventures
Gazza has been busy with the paperback launch of his book 'Eight', which won Autobiography of the Year at the Charles Tyrwhitt Sports Book Awards. The book candidly explores his struggles with alcohol, drug addiction, and OCD. 'It was good therapy and many people have come up to me saying it helped them. As far as I am concerned, if it can save one person then I have done my job.' He also condemned ticket prices for the World Cup as 'disgusting', saying: 'Football is the main sport in the world, to charge people who have not got that much money and yet follow England so much is terrible.'
Despite his love for the game, Gazza's fear of flying means he won't travel to the US for the tournament. He is in talks with Tyson Fury's management about a potential Netflix documentary. 'I love the film Gladiator, it reminds me of my attitude towards the game. In the film, he said, 'Entertain the fans and win them over.' And that is what I tried to do. I hope the young players can enjoy America. They are in with a chance, and can beat anyone on their day.'
