Aaron Wan-Bissaka — DR Congo World Cup 2026 Squad

Career Highlights

Aaron Wan-Bissaka built a reputation as one of the Premier League's elite one-on-one defenders during his time at Crystal Palace and Manchester United. He was named in the PFA Premier League Team of the Year in 2019 after a breakout season at Selhurst Park and was part of Manchester United's Europa League final squad in 2021. In 2024, he made the switch to West Ham United, where his tackling statistics immediately ranked among the best in the league. Despite his domestic pedigree, his international career has been limited, with just 10 caps for DR Congo.

Club Career

Wan-Bissaka came through the Crystal Palace academy and made his first-team debut in February 2018 under Roy Hodgson. His performances at right-back were so impressive that Manchester United paid a reported £50 million to sign him in 2019, making him one of the most expensive defenders in British transfer history. At United, he made over 170 appearances across five seasons and was consistently among the league leaders in tackles won and dribblers dispossessed. His attacking output was frequently questioned, but few fullbacks in world football could match his ability to win the ball in isolated defensive situations. A move to West Ham in 2024 offered a fresh start and regular minutes.

International Career & World Cup History

Wan-Bissaka chose to represent DR Congo, the country of his parents' birth, after initially being eligible for England at youth level. He made his international debut for the Leopards in 2024 and has since earned 10 caps without scoring. DR Congo have never qualified for a World Cup, and their path through CAF qualifying remains among the most challenging in African football. Despite his limited international experience, his defensive quality elevates any back line he joins.

World Cup 2026 Outlook

At 28, Wan-Bissaka will be in his defensive prime during the 2026 World Cup cycle. DR Congo face an uphill battle to qualify from a congested CAF field, but if they reach the tournament, his tackling and positional discipline would give them a genuine asset at right-back. His ability to neutralise skilful wingers in one-on-one scenarios could prove decisive against top opposition. Should DR Congo fall short, he will have established himself as one of the tournament's notable absentees.