Manchester United have five squad members still fighting for a spot in the 2026 World Cup quarter‑finals, after Brazil, Portugal and England’s early exits trimmed the club’s representation.

Which United players remain in the tournament?

Brazil’s Matheus Cunha started every match until Brazil’s 2‑1 loss to Norway on 23 June 2026 in New Jersey, which knocked him out in the round of 16. Portugal’s duo Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot also bowed out when Spain eliminated Portugal on 25 June 2026. The five United players still alive are: Noussair Mazraoui (Morocco), Senne Lammens (Belgium, squad member), Kobbie Mainoo and Marcus Rashford (England), and Lisandro Martínez (Argentina).

How are the United‑linked nations faring?

Mazraoui has been Morocco’s defensive rock, helping the Atlas Lions to a 3‑0 win over Canada on 20 June 2026. They now face France in the quarter‑finals on 2 July 2026. Belgium, despite Lammens not playing, celebrated a 4‑1 victory over Mauricio Pochettino’s side on 22 June 2026, securing a quarter‑final clash with Spain. England, with Mainoo yet to debut, will meet Norway on 3 July 2026; Rashford’s place on the left flank remains uncertain as Thomas Tuchel weighs Anthony Gordon against him. Argentina, led by Martínez, survived a dramatic 3‑2 win over Egypt on 21 June 2026 and will take on Switzerland on 1 July 2026 for a semi‑final berth.

What does this mean for Manchester United’s season?

Having five players still in the world’s biggest tournament raises United’s global profile and could boost commercial revenue ahead of the 2026‑27 campaign. The experience gained by Mazraoui, Mainoo and Rashford in high‑pressure knockout games may translate into stronger performances in the Premier League. Conversely, the club will miss training time with these internationals, and any injury risk could affect early‑season plans under Erik ten Hag.

What’s next for the United contingent?

Mazraoui will travel to Paris for the France quarter‑final on 2 July 2026; his defensive work will be under the spotlight. Mainoo hopes a substitute appearance against Norway could earn him a regular spot in England’s midfield. Rashford’s selection dilemma will be resolved by Tuchel on the eve of the match, with the left‑wing role potentially shaping England’s attacking shape. Martínez will aim to help Argentina reach the semi‑final against Switzerland on 1 July 2026, hoping to add another World Cup medal to his résumé. United fans will be watching closely, as each performance reflects on the club’s reputation worldwide.