Antonio Valencia will be sharing his insight on the 2026 World Cup as a former Ecuador international this summer.
At Manchester United, Antonio Valencia is remembered fondly for being a versatile wide man who went from playing as a winger to a right back during his 10 years at Old Trafford.
The Ecuadorian joined United from Wigan in 2009 and went on to make 339 appearances, winning two Premier League titles as well as other trophies.
Valencia retired from playing football in 2019, but he recently came out of retirement to play games for amateur side Wythenshawe, who play in the seventh tier of English football.
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Antonio Valencia grateful for new job
Former United captain Valencia will be working in a studio this summer, after a brief spell in the amateur game.
Valencia takes on a commentary role at the 2026 World Cup with Telemundo Deportes, a Spanish-language broadcaster owned by NBC Sports Group.
This means Valencia will be among Telemundo Deportes’ experts for the tournament set to take place in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
The list of pundits on Telemundo Deportes will include former Real Madrid star Guti as well as Mexico icon Andres Guardado.
Valencia, 40, shared the news on social media, writing on X: “I want to thank God for this new stage, and @TelemundoSports for the trust; I’ll try to give my best. See you at the World Cup 2026.”
It goes without saying that Valencia will have a close eye on the United players – and transfer targets – competing at the World Cup.
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Did Antonio Valencia ever play at a World Cup?
Valencia played in two World Cup tournaments for Ecuador.
In 2006, Valencia was a key part of the Ecuador side that reached the round of 16, playing in all four of their matches during that tournament.
Valencia captained Ecuador at the 2014 World Cup, appearing in all three of their matches in the group stages.
It will be intriguing to hear what Valencia has to say about the World Cup.
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