With the 2026 FIFA World Cup groups decided, the entire soccer world is geared up for next summer’s quadrennial tournament. France and Arsenal legend Thierry Henry has said that the United States men’s national team (USMNT) could have a positive showing next year.
But what did the 1998 FIFA World Cup winner have to say about the co-hosts’ chances?
Thierry Henry Backs USMNT to Top 2026 FIFA World Cup Group
Ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup, Henry is of the opinion that the USMNT could finish at the top of Group D in the much-anticipated tournament. He has also asserted that USMNT should make the most of the home support next summer.
“When I was there, I could see that people were happy because it could have been worse. And yes, it is a winnable group. You still have to do it. The last games that I’ve seen from the U.S. were reassuring, I will be honest, but you have to be good when the World Cup starts,” Henry said (via Tribal Football).
The former Barcelona and Juventus forward also claimed that the USMNT could benefit from a deeper bond with their fans, potentially building momentum in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Henry added, “I’ve seen it with South Korea in 2002, I’ve seen it in Russia when Russia played the World Cup in their country (in 2018). When you get that momentum, anything is possible. But like I said, you still have to go through the group. It won’t be easy, but it could have been worse.”
READ MORE: Ex-USMNT Star Makes Bold 2026 FIFA World Cup Prediction
The USMNT are set to play in their 11th FIFA World Cup edition in 2026. Their best performance at the World Cup, as of 2025, is their third-place finish in 1930, the inaugural event.
Arsène Wenger Predicts Winner of 2026 FIFA World Cup
Former Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger has claimed that France could notch their second FIFA World Cup crown in a span of eight years in 2026. He also revealed the reason behind his prediction.
“By trying to be as objective as possible, I think France are the super favourites. Just for one reason. They have more world-class strikers than any other country. To have such a bench and such quality will make the difference,” the legendary tactician told GOAL.
After being guided to their first FIFA World Cup win by Zinedine Zidane and Henry in 1998, France lifted the much-coveted trophy for the second time in 2018. However, they crashed to a 4-2 loss on penalties against Argentina in 2022’s summit clash.
