England’s progression to the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup is not only a sporting success but also a financial win for Premier League clubs.
After defeating DR Congo 2-1 on 1 July, England secured a place in the knockout stages and generated additional income for clubs through FIFA’s Club Benefits Programme. Under the scheme, teams receive approximately $5,000 per player per day for every footballer participating in the tournament.
Ahead of England’s Round of 16 clash against host nation Mexico on 6 July, Premier League clubs are expected to have collectively earned around $500,000 in compensation payments.
Arsenal and Manchester City lead the earnings table
Arsenal and Manchester City are projected to be the biggest beneficiaries, with four England internationals each in the squad. Both clubs are expected to receive around $100,000.
Aston Villa follows with three representatives, while Chelsea and Newcastle United each have two players in the England squad.
FIFA’s compensation rules, which are based on a player’s registration status at the time of the final squad submission, have also created some unusual scenarios.
Newcastle, for example, remains eligible for compensation related to Anthony Gordon because, despite his transfer to Barcelona being announced in May, the move was only officially completed on 1 July.
By contrast, Manchester United will miss out on payments connected to Marcus Rashford after his loan agreement expired on 30 June and the forward was subsequently registered by Barcelona.
Other Premier League clubs, including Brentford, Crystal Palace, Everton, Nottingham Forest and Tottenham Hotspur, are also set to benefit financially through payments linked to their players’ participation.
Outside England, clubs such as Bayern Munich, Real Madrid and Al Hilal are receiving compensation for players including Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and Ivan Toney.
England booked their place in the last 16 thanks to a 2-1 victory over DR Congo, with captain Harry Kane playing a key role in securing qualification and extending the Three Lions’ World Cup campaign.