FIFA confirms final World Cup 2026 rosters as multiple nations finalize preparations for North American tournament.
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National football federations across Africa, Europe, and Asia have submitted their final 26-player squads for the 2026 FIFA World Cup scheduled for June 11 across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Simultaneously, several continental powers have begun their second phase of preparatory training camps, with established tournament favorites and returning nations gearing up for what will be the tournament's largest format featuring 48 teams.
The reporting period saw significant squad announcements, notable player exclusions, and the commencement of official training protocols. Major storylines include unexpected omissions from traditional powerhouses and the historic participation of nations returning after decades of absence.
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Saudi Arabia National Team — The Green squad arrived in Austin, Texas to begin its final preparatory phase before the World Cup, having submitted its 26-player roster with five players excluded from the initial squad, according to Almadina and Okaz. Coach Georgios Donis finalized selections as the team prepares for friendly matches against Puerto Rico and Senegal.Egypt National Team — The Pharaohs commenced training in Ohio as part of preparations for a friendly against Brazil, with a historic Egyptian refereeing crew selected for World Cup participation for the first time, per Okaz.Turkey and Senegal Qualifications — Turkey ended a 24-year World Cup absence with qualification for 2026, marking the nation's third appearance, while Senegal secured its fourth tournament berth in history, according to Okaz reporting.Liverpool and Managerial Changes — Liverpool reached a preliminary agreement with former Bournemouth coach Andoni Iraola to lead the club next season, succeeding Arne Slot, while Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish announced a cancer diagnosis via Instagram, per Okaz.International Player Movements — Real Madrid moved closer to signing French defender Ibrahima Konaté on a free transfer from Liverpool, while Saud Abdulhamid's market value surged to 9 million euros following his performance with French club Lens, according to Okaz sources.Mexico and Historical Records — Veteran goalkeeper Guillermo Ochoa entered Mexico's World Cup history after selection by coach Javier Aguirre, while Netherlands coach Dick Advocaat approached record age as oldest World Cup manager at 78 years old, per Okaz.What to Watch:
Saudi Arabia faces Puerto Rico and Senegal in friendly matches during its final Austin training camp. Egypt prepares for a Brazil friendly while tracking Mohamed Salah's pursuit of Egyptian scoring records. The tournament begins June 11 with expanded 48-team format across North America.