Two Leeds United stars have already qualified for 2026 World Cup as teammates fight to join them

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Leeds United have two internationals who have already secured a place in the 2026 World Cup, with their nations qualifying.

The Premier League season has once again been put on hold, something that will no doubt frustrate Leeds United fans, given Daniel Farke’s side’s promising start to life in the top flight.

However, the October international break is a vital one as many World Cup qualifying campaigns are reaching a critical juncture and more nations could secure their place in 2026’s tournament.

With the World Cup – which will be held across Mexico, Canada and the USA – now being expanded to 48 teams, a lot of the best nations should qualify and additional hope has also been given to those who usually miss out.

Wales, for instance – who have a strong Leeds contingent in Ethan Ampadu, Dan James, Joe Rodon and Karl Darlow – still have a real shot of making it to the tournament for just the second time since 1958.

Many countries will be learning how close they are to making it to the prestigious competition over the next fortnight, but some countries have already sealed their place.

Two Leeds stars’ nations are among the 18 countries that have qualified.

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Brenden Aaronson – USA

It’s hardly surprising that the United States have qualified for the tournament, as they are co-hosting it.

Given the World Cup is now 16 teams larger, there was no trouble in giving all three hosts an automatic spot in the competition, with Mexico and Canada also in.

Whether or not Brenden Aaronson will actually be playing in his home country, though, remains to be seen.

The forward has been called up by Mauricio Pochettino in October, but he was snubbed in September and has not got a guaranteed place in the USMNT.

Ao Tanaka – Japan

Unlike the USA, Ao Tanaka’s Japan have earned their place in an eighth World Cup in a row on the pitch.

The Samurai Blue secured their spot with three games to spare, finishing top of their group in the Third Round of qualifying ahead of the likes of Australia and Saudi Arabia.

Tanaka made seven appearances during the qualifying campaign, scoring one goal against North Korea, but hasn’t played for his country since March. He is back in the squad in October.