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Aaron Wan-Bissaka spent his formative years in Croydon, played through England’s youth system, and built a Premier League career on English soil. On July 1, he’ll try to knock England out of the World Cup. Wearing the blue of DR Congo.
The right-back’s journey from south London to representing DR Congo at the 2026 FIFA World Cup is one of those stories that makes international football endlessly fascinating. Born on November 26, 1997, Wan-Bissaka represented England at under-21 level before switching allegiance to the Democratic Republic of Congo in 2025, drawing on his Congolese heritage. Now he’s set to face the Three Lions in a round of 32 match in Atlanta.
From England youth caps to Congolese colours
Wan-Bissaka made his debut for DR Congo on September 5, 2025, during a World Cup qualifier against South Sudan. FIFA eligibility rules allow players who haven’t been cap-tied through senior competitive appearances to switch nations, and Wan-Bissaka took advantage of that window.
His inclusion in DR Congo’s 26-man squad, announced in May 2026, was hardly a surprise given his importance to the team.
DR Congo’s return after 50 years in the wilderness
DR Congo’s appearance at this World Cup is not routine. The last time this nation competed on football’s biggest stage was 1974, when they participated as Zaire. DR Congo secured their spot through a playoff victory over Jamaica, with Axel Tuanzebe, another player with English football ties, scoring a crucial goal.
England arrived at this stage after topping their group. A 2-0 victory over Panama helped secure first place in their pool. Their preparation has been complicated by injuries, with Reece James and Jarell Quansah among those dealing with fitness concerns.
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