Why is Aaron Wan-Bissaka playing for DR Congo at the World Cup?

Aaron Wan-Bissaka will be playing at the 2026 World Cup this summer representing DR Congo.

Premier League fans are sure to notice the West Ham defender, but his nation may potentially catch some off guard.

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And that’s because he made a major change last year, which has seen him book a spot in North America for the tournament…

Why is Wan-Bissaka playing for DR Congo?

Wan-Bissaka is part of DR Congo’s squad for the World Cup after switching international allegiance from England.

The 28-year-old played for DR Congo at U20 level before going on to represent the Three Lions’ U20s and U21s too.

He then played at the 2019 U21 Euros under Aidy Boothroyd, with his last appearance coming in a group game that year.

Despite his impressive form in the Premier League for Crystal Palace, Manchester United and West Ham over the years, he never managed to receive a call-up to England’s senior squad.

Amid competition from Kyle Walker, Trent Alexander-Arnold, Kieran Trippier and more stars, Wan-Bissaka fell down the pecking order.

And that led him to lean on his parents’ origin, with both his father and mother being born in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The right-back officially switched his nationality in September 2025, receiving his first call-up for that month’s World Cup qualifiers.

Wan-Bissaka has since made 11 appearances for DR Congo, helping them reach just their second ever World Cup.

On his decision to switch allegiance, he said in January: “It’s my country, where my parents come from. I grew up in a Congolese household, and I’m proud to represent it.

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“I wanted to join the national team when I felt ready. Only I know when I am ready, not when others decide for me.

“At that moment, I felt it was the right time.”

Familiar faces

Wan-Bissaka’s inclusion in the DR Congo squad will see him come up against Cristiano Ronaldo in his first game at the World Cup.

His nation face Portugal in their Group K opener on June 17 before clashes with Colombia and Uzbekistan follow.

Many other recognisable faces are in the DR Congo set-up too, including multiple Premier League stars.

Newcastle striker Yoane Wissa will be leading the line, while Sunderland‘s Noah Sadiki is going to be in midfield.

Burnley‘s Axel Tuanzebe will likely be next to Wan-Bissaka in defence, alongside ex-Newcastle centre-back Chancel Mbemba.

Edo Kayembe of Watford is also in the squad, with Arthur Masuaku sure to be involved throughout the tournament.