Jamie Carragher has picked Trevoh Chalobah for his own 26-man England World Cup squad. The Liverpool legend thinks the Chelsea defender will make Thomas Tuchel’s final cut for the tournament in North America.
Notably, the Blues called the 26-year-old back from his loan spell at Crystal Palace in January 2025, where he scored three goals in 14 games. In the year since, Chalobah has since established himself as a key figure at Stamford Bridge. The defender has played in all but four of Chelsea’s games this season, which helped the Blues get to fifth place in the Premier League.
Former England defender Carragher, who revealed his Three Lions’ squad choices on Monday Night Football, has been impressed by his consistent play. He was very clear in his praise for Chalobah, pointing out how much the defender had improved since coming back from Selhurst Park:
“I’m a fan of Chalobah. I think he’s been fantastic since he’s come back from his loan spell at Crystal Palace.”
He went on:
“And when I think of those Chelsea centre-backs, I think he’s the one who has emerged out of those five or six, who I thought were at the same level. He’s the one who has almost emerged as the leader for me out of that centre-back group.”
Carragher made it clear what he thought about England’s defensive options for the World Cup:
“Out of those challengers there, I’d go with Chalobah (to make the World Cup squad).”
Chalobah has already been called up to the England teams this season. For example, in November 2025, he took the place of injured Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi. He notably played for England’s senior team for the first time in June 2025 against Senegal, following in the footsteps of his brother Nathaniel.
It could be very important for the defender to get along with Tuchel. Chalobah made his Chelsea debut in 2021 under the England manager, and their past relationship may help the defender when it comes time to choose a squad.
The Fight For Chelsea’s Center-Back Spot Is Getting More Intense
Chelsea’s central defense is very strong right now, and Chalobah is competing with well-known players for playing time. Wesley Fofana, who played in 12 of Chelsea’s first 13 league games before getting hurt, and Benoit Badiashile are also in the running.
Mamadou Sarr, a new signing, joined the team before the start of this season, making the fight for spots even more intense. Levi Colwill has been injured through all of this season, but he will likely retain a starting role upon his return as a key player at the backline.
Chalobah’s ability to stand out in this crowded field shows that he is good and consistent. His ability to play in different positions has also been useful; the academy graduate has even played right-back when needed.