Full Breakdown
Veteran Stars and Squad Strategies Shape the 2026 FIFA World Cup
5/20/2026, 1:09:47 AM
The Expanded World Cup and Squad Announcements
The 2026 tournament, staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 18, expands to 48 teams divided into 12 groups. National associations have submitted provisional 26-man lists, with final rosters due by June 2. Brazil (Carlo Ancelotti), Portugal (Roberto Martínez), Scotland (Steve Clarke), and Iran (Amir Ghalenoei) all released squads that blend seasoned internationals with emerging talent, reflecting the broader challenge of fielding competitive line-ups in the enlarged format.
Veteran Players and Age Milestones
Only seven players aged 40 or older have ever appeared in a men’s World Cup match, yet five more are poised to join that elite group. Egypt’s Essam El Hadary remains the oldest ever, playing at 45 years 161 days in 2018. Scotland’s Craig Gordon, 43, is the oldest named in a 2026 squad, while Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo, 41, could become the second-oldest to feature. Japan’s Yuto Nagatomo (39), Bosnia’s Edin Džeko (40), Croatia’s Luka Modric (40) and Cape Verde’s Vozinha (turning 40) also sit on the cusp of historic appearances.
Coaching Perspectives
- Carlo Ancelotti (Brazil): “He has improved his fitness, he will be an important player in this World Cup.”
- Roberto Martínez (Portugal): “He is our strength, our joy.” and “Losing Diogo was an unforgettable and very difficult moment.”
- Steve Clarke (Scotland): Emphasised squad depth and the need for goalkeepers to stay “working at maximum in training.”
- Amir Ghalenoei (Iran): “Naturally, I am not fully satisfied with the players’ level of readiness,” but added a 2½-week camp could recover 20-25 % of the fitness gap.
Debate Over Selections
Analysts questioned Brazil’s inclusion of Neymar, noting his limited play since an ACL tear in 2023 and describing the decision as “more emotional than anything else.” João Pedro’s omission sparked criticism after his 20-goal season for Chelsea. Iran’s preparation faced scrutiny because domestic players endured a seven-week competitive hiatus after the league suspension. Scotland’s reliance on Gordon drew concern over his recent shoulder injury and limited club minutes.
Discrepancies in Squad Listings
Media outlets differ on Brazil’s final roster: some still list João Pedro, while official releases omit him. Portugal’s squad is reported with varying defender line-ups, including or excluding Rafael Leão. The United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) predictions list 26 players, yet the official roster remains unannounced. Iran’s friendly schedule is tentative, with a planned Gambia match on May 29 and a possible closed-door game against Puerto Rico pending visa clearance.
Upcoming Fixtures
Brazil opens Group C against Morocco (June 13, New Jersey). Portugal begins Group K versus DR Congo (June 17, Houston). Scotland’s first Group C match is versus Haiti (June 13, Boston). Iran will face Gambia (May 29) before finalizing its 26-man list by June 1. These encounters will test the blend of veteran experience and youthful vigor assembled by each coach.
Verbatim Quotes
- “He has improved his fitness, he will be an important player in this World Cup,” — Carlo Ancelotti, Brazil coach
- “He is our strength, our joy,” — Roberto Martínez, Portugal coach
- “To lose Diogo Jota was an unforgettable moment and a very difficult moment.” — Roberto Martínez, Portugal coach
- “Naturally, I am not fully satisfied with the players' level of readiness,” — Amir Ghalenoei, Iran coach
- “The logic for bringing him onto the squad feels more emotional than anything else.” — Football analyst (citing Brazil’s Neymar selection)
