Jarel Kwansa admitted that being selected for the World Cup squad was a huge honor for him.

Jarrell Kwansa, speaking about being selected for England's 2026 World Cup squad, said it was a great honor for him. He also acknowledged that leaving Liverpool last summer, while a difficult decision, objectively increased his chances of making the national team.  

Seeking more playing time, Jarrell Kwansa left Liverpool in the summer of 2025 to join Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen. Since joining, he has performed admirably in both the domestic league and the Champions League, earning the approval of England manager Thomas Tuchel. Last season, Leverkusen finished sixth in the Bundesliga and qualified for the Champions League knockout stages.  

Thanks to his outstanding performance last season, Jarrell Kwansa has earned a place in England's 26-man World Cup squad. He believes his decision to leave Anfield has proven to be the right one.  

After England's 3-0 victory over Costa Rica in a World Cup warm-up match, Jarrell Kwansa said: "To be honest, leaving the club that nurtured me last summer was a very difficult decision. It was a team I had played for since I was five years old, and it witnessed my entire growth process."  

“However, I know that if I want to take my career to the next level, I need to have consistent playing time and maintain a rhythm of playing every week. Those who know me know that I have always believed in my ability to do so. I have always believed that I can succeed on the top stage, and this season is the opportunity to prove that. Being called up for the World Cup after the past 12 months of hard work means a lot to me.”  

When discussing his own growth, the 23-year-old defender said, "I feel like I get better with every game I play. I'm still in the early stages of my career, and as long as I stay focused and keep working hard, I believe I'll have a bright future. The most important thing now is to stick to my direction, keep moving towards my goal, and hopefully eventually achieve my dream."  

With his excellent versatility, Jarrell Kwansa is considered one of Thomas Tuchel's key options in this World Cup squad. The England defender can anchor the center and also play at right-back.  

Jarrell Kwansa added, “From the early part of my career until now, I’ve played in different positions in the backline, including left center-back, right center-back, and right-back. To be honest, I’m comfortable in all of these roles. Especially last season, although Leverkusen mainly used a three-man defense, I often had to cover the right flank and take on similar responsibilities as a right-back. I’m still learning this position, but every game gives me more experience.”  

Image source: Internet/England National Team official website