The biggest football tournament is almost here, with nearly 50 international teams competing for the coveted World Cup 2026 trophy. This year, the event will take place across Canada, Mexico, and the United States from June 11 to July 19. It marks the first time the tournament, held every four years since 1930, has been hosted by three nations, and it will also be the first World Cup to feature 48 teams, up from the previous 32.
England's World Cup Campaign
For those hoping England will bring the trophy home, their first match is against Croatia at 9pm on June 17. They will then face Ghana and Panama on June 23 and 27, with a chance to advance to the quarter-finals.
Led by captain Harry Kane, England's squad was recently unveiled. Jordan Pickford, John Stones, and Marcus Rashford are making their third World Cup appearance. Jordan Henderson will appear in his fourth squad, equalling the record set by Sir Bobby Charlton. Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham, and Bukayo Saka will be at their second World Cup, while Dean Henderson, Marc Guéhi, Ezri Konsa, Kobbie Mainoo, Eberechi Eze, Anthony Gordon, Ollie Watkins, Ivan Toney, and Reece James make their first appearances for a major tournament squad.
Nine players—James Trafford, Tino Livramento, Nico O'Reilly, Djed Spence, Dan Burn, Jarell Quansah, Elliot Anderson, Noni Madueke, and Morgan Rogers—will make their senior tournament debuts. Following warm-up fixtures, the squad will set up at their tournament base in Kansas City on Saturday, June 13.
Manchester Screening Venues
For fans who enjoy watching the action on a big screen surrounded by fellow supporters, Greater Manchester offers numerous venues hosting World Cup screenings. Here are some highlights:
- The Grosvenor: Hosting one of Manchester's biggest England fanzones with giant screens, free Fireball shots after England goals, and matchday merchandise. Early bird tickets free, general tickets £7 including a drink.
- House of Social: Screening every match with pre-parties on the terrace. Tickets from £15 for standing, £30 for reserved table with drink and food token.
- The Station Hotel: Showing England games on a big screen with darts, pool, and outdoor Casamigos Terrace. Walk-ins only.
- Motley: Screening games before midnight with Budweiser buckets. Brisket and beer deal for £20.
- Courts Club: Largest outdoor screen in the city, plus indoor screen, pre-match quizzes, and Aperidisco. General admission from £6.13.
- Zouk Tea Bar & Grill: Relaxed hospitality with reserved seating and table service. Match Night offering at £29 includes food and drink.
- Freight Island and Mayfield Depot: Europe's largest World Cup fan park for up to 15,000 fans, with anti-glare screens, DJs, and football legends. Early bird tickets from £4.50.
- The Factory Floor: In Wigan, with big screen, live singers, and VIP upgrades. Early bird tickets from £7.
- Society: Food hall with epic screen, beer garden, and £1,000 prize. Free entry for select beer promotions.
- Pigeon Beer Wanderer: 100-inch screen showing all England games, with 24 craft beers. Follow Instagram for updates.
- Victoria Baths: Unique screening in a historic swimming pool with food hall and DJs. Tickets from £8.
- Trading Route: German-style venue with tickets from £6 including a drink.
- GRUB On The Docks: Open-air destination with street food and pop-up bars. Open Tuesday-Sunday.
- O'Malleys: Irish bar with five screens, open until 4am. Free entry.
- Electric Shuffle: Private viewing screens for groups, shuffleboard included. From £25 per person.
- The Lawn Club: Outdoor fan zone with DJs. Tickets from £10 including first drink.
- Joshua Brooks: Live DJs and good vibes. Free standing tickets; group deals available.
- Diecast: World Cup Nights for 5,000 fans with LED screens and live show. Tickets available.
- The Abbey: Reopened venue with big screen and drinks specials. Follow Instagram for details.
- Dirty O'Sullivans: First World Cup celebration with Guinness and food. First 1,000 bookers get a free pint.
- The Blues Kitchen: Free screenings of England matches with Southern-inspired menu. Doors open 7pm.
- Stables Tavern: No tickets needed; walk-ins only. Rotating local beers and pies.
- GRUB Stretford: 6,000 sq ft space with traders and entertainment. £6 entry includes a pint.
- AO Arena: UK's largest fan zone with world-class production. Sign up for info.
Fans are advised to check venue details as schedules may change.
