Former Barcelona left-back Jordi Alba is set to make his debut in Soccer Aid 2026. The charity match, co-founded by Robbie Williams in 2006, will take place on May 31 at the London Stadium. Since its inception, Soccer Aid has raised more than £121 million for UNICEF.
Marler Swaps Rugby Boots for Goalkeeping Gloves
Joe Marler will make his England bow at Soccer Aid 2026. The former England rugby star will don the goalkeeper gloves for the Three Lions. He will share the responsibility with TV presenter Paddy McGuinness, while Joe Hart has been named as the Three Lions’ professional goalkeeper.
Marler said he was honoured to be part of Soccer Aid for UNICEF. He added that he never believed he would be swapping an England rugby kit for a football kit but rest assured he’ll be a ‘Faithful’ to an amazing cause.
Star-Studded Line-Up for Anniversary Edition
The England side, managed by Robbie Williams, will take on a Rest of the World XI led by Usain Bolt. Alba will join the World XI team alongside Edwin van der Sar and Leonardo Bonucci.
Two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup winner Ali Krieger, and former Arsenal and Scotland international Jen Beattie, will also feature for the first time. Owen Cooper will also be part of England’s squad. Actors Damson Idris and Tom Hiddleston will also feature, with more players set to be announced.
Returning football legends include Wayne Rooney, Jermain Defoe, Jill Scott, Steph Houghton and Theo Walcott. Rooney said he can’t wait for this year’s Soccer Aid for UNICEF and to pull on the England shirt one more time for the 20th anniversary.
Alba said he was very pleased to be making his debut for the World XI at Soccer Aid for UNICEF. He added that he knows that many special players have taken part over the years and for him to play in the twentieth anniversary of the event will be a great pleasure.
- Jordi Alba and Joe Marler are making their Soccer Aid debuts.
- Robbie Williams and Usain Bolt will manage the sides.
- The event has raised over £121 million for UNICEF since 2006.
The World XI won last year’s match 5-4. The game will be played with the adidas Trionda ball, which is the first time the ball will be used outside of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.