Everton's World Cup Contingent: Mixed Fortunes Across the Tournament
Everton's four representatives at the 2026 FIFA World Cup experienced varying degrees of success as the tournament unfolded. Nathan Patterson was the first to exit after Scotland failed to progress beyond the group stage despite an opening victory over Haiti. Idrissa Gueye, whose Everton contract expired during the competition, and Iliman Ndiaye had promising moments but fell just short of the last 16 following a late Belgium comeback. Jordan Pickford endured a rollercoaster campaign as England secured third place.
Nathan Patterson: A Positive Step Forward
Patterson earned a rating of 7 for his performances. Scotland's tournament ended in disappointment after a collapse against Brazil prevented them from advancing as one of the best third-placed teams. On a personal level, Patterson gained valuable experience. He came on as a substitute in the win over Haiti and started against Morocco and Brazil, representing a significant upgrade from the limited opportunities he received during the second half of the season at Everton. This tournament allowed him to demonstrate sustained fitness for one of the longest periods since his arrival in January 2022. Despite Everton's search for a right-back, with midfielder Merlin Rohl starting there against Dundee, Patterson's international displays could attract summer interest.
Idrissa Gueye: Showcasing Top-Level Quality
Gueye also received a rating of 7. No longer an Everton player, his future remains unresolved. The World Cup allowed him to showcase his enduring ability at the highest level, potentially bolstering his next career move. Senegal's campaign was underwhelming; they faced a tough group but expected to challenge Norway and France. After thrashing Iraq to reach the knockout stages, they squandered a two-goal lead to lose to Belgium after extra time. Gueye started all four matches, retaining his role as one of Senegal's most influential figures.
Iliman Ndiaye: A Frustrating Tournament
Ndiaye earned a rating of 5. The tournament proved frustrating for the winger, who aimed to establish himself among the world's best. His disappointing end to the season with Everton continued as he struggled for opportunities behind Sadio Mane and Ismaila Sarr. He had a brief highlight, scoring one and setting up another in the 5-0 win over Iraq, earning a start against Belgium. However, he was substituted with the game seemingly won, only for Senegal to concede two late goals and lose in extra time. Despite being one of the Premier League's most exciting players in early 2025 and playing a key role in Senegal's Africa Cup of Nations success, Ndiaye could not carry that momentum into the World Cup.
Jordan Pickford: Ups and Downs in England's Bronze Run
Pickford received a rating of 7. His World Cup experience generated intense debate, particularly regarding Argentina's semi-final equaliser. The Everton number one had mixed moments. He was fortunate to win a foul rather than concede one in the draw with Ghana after colliding with an attacker outside the box. He was frustrated to concede at his near post against the Democratic Republic of Congo, though mistakes occurred before the goal. A freak goal against Norway was unfortunate, but he produced one of the greatest tournament displays by an England goalkeeper in the monumental win over Mexico. The argument over his culpability for Enzo Fernandez's semi-final goal is unfounded, as he made several important saves before that strike. Pickford had highs and lows but was not the reason England fell short, and his status as the Three Lions' number one remains secure.
