With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just weeks away, the 48 participating nations are under pressure to finalize their 26-man squads. The tournament, which kicks off on June 11 across the United States, Canada and Mexico, marks the first edition of the expanded format. BBC Sport is tracking every announced roster as the countdown continues, and the early reveals have already thrown up a host of intriguing storylines—from veteran swansongs to shock omissions and injury blows.
Belgium's selection of Romelu Lukaku is perhaps the most debated decision so far. Described as 'out of shape' by manager sources, the 31‑year‑old striker still earned his place on the plane. Lukaku's physical presence and international goal‑scoring record—he is Belgium's all‑time top scorer—override fitness concerns for a team transitioning away from its golden generation. The reliance on him signals both a lack of alternative firepower and the depth of his experience in major tournaments.
Croatia will once again be led by Luka Modrić, now aged 40. The Real Madrid midfielder remains the heartbeat of a side that reached the semi‑finals in 2022 and the final in 2018. His inclusion is a testament to his enduring quality, but it also raises questions about Croatia's regeneration. Modrić's World Cup swansong promises to be an emotional narrative, with supporters hoping he can conjure one last piece of magic.
Defending champions France named a squad dripping with talent, headlined by Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé. Their blistering pace and creativity will be central to Didier Deschamps' plans as Les Bleus aim to become the first team to retain the trophy since Brazil in 1962. The forward line alone makes France favourites for a deep run.
Sweden also boast a formidable attacking duo in Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyökeres. Isak's electric dribbling and Gyökeres' clinical finishing have turned Sweden into dark horses. After missing out on Qatar 2022, the Blågult return with a point to prove, and their forward firepower could unsettle more fancied opponents.
South Korea captain Son Heung‑min is set for his fourth World Cup. The Tottenham star remains the talisman, but the pressure on him is immense. Without a reliable secondary scorer, Korea's fate in a difficult group will rest squarely on his shoulders. If Son finds his Premier League form, an upset is possible; if not, an early exit beckons.
Japan received a blow with confirmation that Kaoru Mitoma will miss the tournament through injury. The Brighton winger's absence robs the Samurai Blue of their most dynamic wide threat. Mitoma's ability to beat defenders and create chances was pivotal during qualifying, and his injury leaves a creative void that manager Hajime Moriyasu must find a way to fill.
Ivory Coast's omission of Wilfried Zaha is the standout shock. The Galatasaray forward has been prolific in Turkey and was widely expected to lead the line. Head coach Sabri Lamouchi's decision hints at either a tactical shift or a breakdown in relations. Without Zaha, the Elephants lose a proven match‑winner, and the pressure on Lamouchi intensifies.
Over in Africa, DR Congo included Premier League duo Aaron Wan‑Bissaka and Yoane Wissa. Wan‑Bissaka's defensive solidity and Wissa's attacking versatility give the Leopards a spine with top‑flight experience. They will need that nous to navigate a group that promises physical battles.
Tunisia also made headlines with Lamouchi leaving out experienced midfielder Ferjani Sassi. The move suggests a youth‑oriented overhaul, but it could leave the midfield light on creativity. Tunisia's hopes of progressing beyond the group stage now hinge on emerging talents stepping up.
Smaller nations captured attention too. Curacao, the smallest nation in terms of population to ever qualify, named its historic debut squad. With a majority of players from Dutch lower leagues, their presence epitomises the expanded tournament's opportunity. Cape Verde's inclusion of Shamrock Rovers winger Dylan Lopes is another fairy‑tale; the 24‑year‑old's journey from League of Ireland to World Cup is a reminder of football's unpredictable paths.
Bosnia‑Herzegovina will be led by veteran Edin Džeko, who joins an exclusive club of outfield players to play at a World Cup after turning 40. The former Manchester City striker's leadership and experience will be crucial as the Dragons chase a first knockout‑stage appearance. Haiti also leaned on European‑based talent, naming Barnsley's Kyrylo Isidor and Wolverhampton Wanderers' Jean‑Ricner Bellegarde in a squad eager to make its mark.
New Zealand's roster blends contrasts: Nottingham Forest's Chris Wood, a proven Premier League scorer, and Braintree Town's Max Smith, who comes from English non‑league. The All Whites' campaign will depend on Wood's goals while providing a platform for lesser‑known names to shine.
As the remaining 34 squads are announced in the coming days, these early selections have already set the tone for a tournament defined by expanding possibilities. From legends defying age to debutants seizing their moment, the 2026 World Cup is shaping up to be as unpredictable as it is inclusive. Based on reporting from BBC Sport.