The 2026 edition gets under way on Thursday evening as Mexico face South Africa (8pm UK time). Four ex-Cobblers players will be in action this summer, adding their names to a surprisingly long list of players and managers with Sixfields connections who have graced the biggest stage of all. Here, we take a look at some of the club’s notable World Cup representatives over the years…
5. Kyle Walker
His loan spell at Sixfields in 2008, where he played nine games, was the start of a glittering career that saw him win 96 England caps and feature in two World Cups (2018 and 2022). Now playing for Burnley, Walker officially retired from international football in March Photo: Pete Norton
6. Kenji Gorre
The other ex-Cobbler who will be involved this summer. Scored one goal in 18 games on loan at Sixfields in 2016/17. He has six goals in 33 matches for Curaçao, who are making their World Cup debut this year. Unlikely to be a starter but should feature. Now plays his club football at Maccabi Haifa. Has also played in Portugal and Qatar Photo: Pete Norton
7. Carney Chukwuemeka
Started in Northampton's academy before Aston Villa picked him up at the age of 14. Played for Villa's senior team and also featured for Chelsea before heading to Borussia Dortmund. Represents Austria nationally and has been called up for the World Cup this summer. Switched allegiances earlier this year after winning the Under-19 Euros with England. He was born in Vienna to Nigerian parents before his family moved to Northampton when he was a child. Played three times for Austria, scoring once, and likely to be a starter in the World Cup Photo: Christian Bruna
8. Rob Page
The Welshman and former Cobblers boss managed his nation between 2020 and 2024, leading them at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. It was the country's first World Cup appearance since 1958. They only picked up one point though and were beaten 3-0 by England. He was sacked in June 2024 and is now the manager of Liverpool Under-21s Photo: Pete Norton