‘There are others ahead of him’ – Sweden coach explains Barcelona talent’s World Cup omission | OneFootball

Roony Bardghji has found himself at the centre of unwanted controversy after being left out of Sweden’s World Cup squad in a decision that has sparked major discussion back home.

The young Barcelona attacker was widely expected to remain involved with the national setup after his growing reputation at club level. 

Instead, Sweden coach Graham Potter made the decision to exclude the winger from the squad, and his explanation has now shed more light on the situation.

Explaining the decision

Speaking about the decision, as quoted by MARCA, Potter discussed Bardghji’s absence alongside that of Hugo Larsson, stating that personality, group chemistry and behaviour influence final decisions.

“From a competitive standpoint, there are others ahead of him at the moment. 

Roony Bardghji will not play at the World Cup. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)

“It also depends on how the 26 players travelling together gel, how they manage their free time and how they behave, as well as their different ages and levels of experience. I love them both,” he said.

As such, reports in Sweden suggest the omission is connected to tensions that emerged during the international gathering, particularly after Sweden’s match against Poland.

What’s the story?

As reported before, Bardghji reacted poorly after remaining on the bench for the entire game without receiving any minutes. 

His frustration after the final whistle became visible during the team’s qualification celebrations, something that did not sit well with sections of the squad.

Roony Bardghji’s attitude has been questioned. (Photo by Judit Cartiel/Getty Images)

There are also claims that several players inside the dressing room were unhappy with the winger’s behaviour, believing he carried himself as though he deserved special treatment.

Reports further suggest that Bardghji confronted members of the coaching staff regarding his lack of playing time and demanded explanations during the camp.

The situation creates an uncomfortable moment for a player who remains one of the most naturally gifted young attackers at Barcelona. 

Although his technical quality has never really been questioned, episodes like this will inevitably increase attention on his mentality and maturity, but for now, he has been punished severely for his behaviour.