Ivan Toney targets England World Cup place as Al Ahli striker eyes international return

Ivan Toney says representing England at the World Cup would be a dream as he pushes for selection
The striker has scored 20 Saudi Pro League goals this season, two more than Cristiano Ronaldo
Toney admits a future Premier League return remains possible

Ivan Toney says winning the World Cup with England would represent the ultimate achievement as he looks to force his way into Thomas Tuchel’s squad for the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The 29 year-old striker has enjoyed an impressive debut season in Saudi Arabia, scoring 20 goals for Al Ahli in the league, two more than Cristiano Ronaldo. Despite that form, Toney has not featured for England since a friendly against Senegal last June, though he did collect a runner–up medal at Euro 2024.

Asked what it would mean to be part of England’s World Cup squad, Toney told Sky Sports News: “It would be a dream to play there. Everybody dreams of that. Imagine if we were to win the World Cup, that would be for the country.

“You have these little visions of what could happen. If it was to come true, it would be a big blessing.”

Toney acknowledged that Bayern Munich forward Harry Kane remains England’s first choice striker, describing him as the best finisher in football, but believes he can provide strong competition.

“My job is to keep scoring goals and hopefully that gives me the best chance of being there,” he said.

Toney’s move to Al Ahli from Brentford in the summer of 2024 raised eyebrows, but he insists he remains fully focused on his ambitions in Saudi Arabia while leaving the door open to a future return to the Premier League.

“I never say never,” he said. “I have goals I want to achieve here first, but in football and in life you never know what’s around the corner. You take it day by day and step by step. Hopefully I can achieve something big here first and then we see what happens next.”

WRITTEN BY

Hailey

Hailey Russell is a football journalist and former Division 1 collegiate athlete in the United States, bringing a unique blend of elite playing experience and professional insight to her work. Currently competing at the professional level in Europe, Hailey combines first-hand knowledge of the modern game with sharp analysis across match reports, player development, and tactical breakdowns.