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Michael Owen, in an exclusive conversation with GOAL, has praised Jude Bellingham’s Wayne Rooney and Paul Gascoigne-like impact on England’s 2026 World Cup squad. The former striker also discussed the potential Ballon d’Or rivalry between Bellingham and Harry Kane, while outlining what England must do to finally end six decades of heartbreak.

Since the triumph of 1966, every England side has been chasing the shadow of that legendary team who lifted the Jules Rimet Trophy under the Wembley sunshine. Over the years, some squads have come close—most notably the semi-final journey led by Gascoigne and Gary Lineker at Italia ’90, and Gareth Southgate’s side reaching the same stage in 2018, alongside consecutive European Championship finals appearances.

The much-celebrated ‘Golden Generation’ fell short of expectations, never progressing beyond the quarter-finals, with Cristiano Ronaldo often proving a decisive opponent for the likes of Owen, Rooney, and David Beckham. Yet, optimism continues to flourish among supporters longing for glory.

Now, England stand once more on the brink of history, having reached another semi-final on North American soil. Awaiting them is Argentina, led by the iconic Lionel Messi, who will face England for the first time in his illustrious career. The challenge is immense, but Thomas Tuchel’s team boasts match-winners capable of shaping their own destiny.

Real Madrid’s star midfielder Jude Bellingham has again become the heartbeat of the side, following his commanding displays at Euro 2024. The 21-year-old has scored six goals in as many matches so far, including crucial braces against Mexico and Norway, underlining his status as England’s talisman.

When asked if Bellingham has taken on the creative mantle once worn by Gascoigne and Rooney, Owen—serving as a UK ambassador for Casino.org—told GOAL: “We’re talking about one of the best players in the world, aren’t we? He’s still young but thrives on big occasions. He’s a key figure for Real Madrid, and one of their standout performers. It’s quite remarkable that people recently questioned whether he should even be part of the team.”

Owen continued: “He’s exceptional. Physically, he’s like a Rolls-Royce—the way he moves, runs, and covers ground is phenomenal. Mentally, he rises to big moments. For England to win the World Cup, we need three or four players at his level. Look at teams like France; they have four or five top-tier players. We have maybe one or two. Harry Kane won’t be around forever, so we need a few more players like Jude Bellingham to build a winning team around.”

Bellingham’s scintillating form has reignited talk of Ballon d’Or contention, especially after finishing third in 2024. Owen, who won the coveted award in 2001 and remains the last Englishman to do so, believes Bellingham could soon follow in his footsteps. Kane, who netted 61 goals for Bayern Munich last season, is also firmly in the running for the Golden Ball. However, fierce competition remains from France’s Kylian Mbappe and Michael Olise, as well as Spain’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who could also make a case with a standout display in the final.

Asked whether Bellingham can be considered among the planet’s best, Owen said: “It depends who wins the World Cup. If England win, he has a great chance. If Harry Kane’s club achievements are factored in, he might edge it. But if Jude scores the decisive goal in the final, that could swing the decision his way. Ultimately, one of them needs to lift the World Cup for either to claim the Ballon d’Or.”

Kane and Bellingham have each scored six goals at this year’s tournament, carrying England through tough conditions and resilient opponents. Their next obstacle is Argentina, a fixture steeped in history. Owen famously introduced himself to the world stage with a dazzling solo goal against the South Americans at the 1998 World Cup, later scoring twice in a friendly in 2005—the last time the two nations met.

Now, Bellingham and Kane aim to make their own headlines in Atlanta. Yet Owen believes they will need stronger support from the rest of the squad. While England’s spirit and determination have been commendable, their play has often been scrappy, lacking the composure needed to control games effectively.

Owen explained: “I agree completely. Everyone was calling the Mexico match one of the greatest England performances ever, but I must have been watching a different game. It was thrilling and dramatic, but we couldn’t string three passes together in the first half. When we went down to ten men, it got even worse. If we play like that against France, we’ll be punished. We need to raise our level significantly.”

He added: “Of course, there were heroic moments, and the team showed incredible fight, but there’s definitely more to come from these players. You could argue Norway played better football than us, and how many of their players would make our starting lineup? Maybe one, if you prefer Haaland to Kane. So yes, we can and must play better. I believe the tougher opponents will bring out stronger performances because great players thrive on big challenges.”

The upcoming clash with Messi’s Argentina gives England a perfect opportunity to prove they belong among football’s elite. It’s a chance to justify Tuchel’s bold decisions and give their travelling supporters a moment to cherish. The aim is to have ‘Wonderwall’ and ‘Three Lions’ echoing through the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Georgia once again. Should Kane or Bellingham lead England to victory, they could not only end the nation’s long wait for a World Cup but also secure Ballon d’Or glory—ushering in a new golden era for English football.