Chris Wood is a 34-year-old New Zealand forward who plays for Nottingham Forest. The right-footed forward is part of the New Zealand squad for World Cup 2026. The article covers his age, nationality, position, current club, salary, net worth, career stats, and tournament outlook.
Chris Wood matters to New Zealand because he is a forward who attacks space, combines quickly, and gives New Zealand a sharper final-third threat. Readers tracking FIFA World Cup 2026 can judge his role through club rhythm, international record, and tactical fit. His squad case also connects to Group G, where New Zealand face Iran, Egypt, and Belgium.
Quick Answer
Christopher Grant Wood is a New Zealand professional footballer from Auckland, New Zealand. He plays as a forward for Nottingham Forest and wears number 9. Chris Wood has 88 New Zealand caps and 45 senior international goals, based on New Zealand Football's squad announcement. His role is built around a forward who attacks space, combines quickly, and gives New Zealand a sharper final-third threat.
Early Life and Background
Chris Wood was born on 7 December 1991 in Auckland, New Zealand. His route into senior football came through club development, where technical detail and competitive habits matter. That base helped him move from youth football into New Zealand's national-team picture.
The current New Zealand squad carries the pressure of turning its first World Cup since 2010 into a stronger campaign under Darren Bazeley. Chris Wood built his case through first-team trust and clear tactical value. As a result, his career now links club standards with New Zealand's push to compete through Group G.
Birthplace, family, and youth football journey
Public coverage of Chris Wood's background focuses mainly on football development. His professional identity comes from club progress, national-team call-ups, and stronger weekly competition. That path fits a player whose value is measured through role clarity.
Chris Wood Personal Info and Profile
| Full name | Christopher Grant Wood |
|---|---|
| Date of birth | 7 December 1991 |
| Age | 34 |
| Nationality | New Zealand |
| Height | 1.91 m |
| Weight | yet to be confirmed |
| Position | Forward |
| Preferred foot | Right |
| Current club | Nottingham Forest |
| Jersey number | 9 |
| Weekly salary | Will be updated soon |
| Estimated net worth | Will be updated soon |
Transfer News and Market Value
Chris Wood's current market value is yet to be confirmed. Public transfer ranges can change quickly because form, contract length, and tournament minutes all affect demand. A stronger World Cup can still raise attention from clubs and scouts.
Chris Wood Salary and Net Worth
Chris Wood's estimated annual salary is Will be updated soon. His estimated weekly salary is Will be updated soon, before bonuses and private commercial details. His estimated net worth is Will be updated soon in 2026.
Chris Wood Club Career
Chris Wood's current club reference is Nottingham Forest. That role gives New Zealand a weekly view of rhythm, match sharpness, and tactical readiness. Club continuity matters because the World Cup leaves little time for players to recover form.
Early clubs and development
Chris Wood's first senior steps gave him the rhythm needed for bigger dressing rooms. His early club environment taught him how to manage pressure from teammates, supporters, and coaches. That experience supports a player moving toward high-stakes international matches.
Current club and recent form
Chris Wood currently plays for Nottingham Forest. His recent form should be judged through minutes, role stability, and national-team fit. A player can strengthen selection trust by staying fit, sharp, and tactically reliable.
Chris Wood - Stats and Performance
| Season | Team | Role or Apps | Goals | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2025-26 | Nottingham Forest | Forward role | Current club record | Active |
| 2026 | New Zealand | 88 caps | 45 goals | World Cup squad |
International Career
Chris Wood has 88 New Zealand caps and 45 senior international goals, based on New Zealand Football's squad announcement. His national-team role has developed through OFC qualifiers, friendlies, and squad camps. New Zealand need that depth because the expanded tournament places more stress on squad management.
Caps, goals, and major tournaments
| National team | Caps | Goals | Tournament involvement |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Zealand | 88 | 45 | World Cup 2026 squad, OFC qualifiers, senior friendlies |
Honours and Trophies
| Trophy | Times Won | Years |
|---|---|---|
| OFC Nations Cup | 2 | 2016, 2024 |
Playing Style and Key Strengths
Chris Wood's playing style is defined by a forward who attacks space, combines quickly, and gives New Zealand a sharper final-third threat. That skill set gives New Zealand a specific tool rather than a generic squad number. Tournament football rewards players who understand their role quickly.
Position, role, and standout qualities
Chris Wood plays as a forward, but the exact role depends on the match plan. He can help the team by keeping distances tight and making simple decisions. His standout qualities connect directly to New Zealand's need for structure in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
How old is Chris Wood and what is his nationality?
Chris Wood is 34 years old. He represents New Zealand and is listed as a forward.
Which club does Chris Wood play for?
Chris Wood plays for Nottingham Forest. His New Zealand squad number is 9.
What is Chris Wood's playing style?
Chris Wood is a forward who attacks space, combines quickly, and gives New Zealand a sharper final-third threat. That role helps New Zealand stay balanced and dangerous.
Is Chris Wood part of the New Zealand national team?
Chris Wood is listed in New Zealand's 2026 World Cup squad. He has 88 caps and 45 goals.
What is Chris Wood's salary or net worth?
Chris Wood's weekly salary is Will be updated soon. His estimated net worth is Will be updated soon.
Conclusion
Chris Wood gives New Zealand a clear forward option before and during World Cup 2026. His club role, senior record, and tactical fit keep him relevant in a competitive squad. The next test is turning tournament trust into reliable match impact.