BVB players eye 2026 World Cup: Who will make the cut? | OneFootball

Many BVB players are fighting for a World Cup ticket in 2026. Dortmund presents numerous candidates for Germany and international top teams.

The next World Cup is casting its shadow ahead – and at Borussia Dortmund, the hope for numerous World Cup participants is growing. 2026 will see the largest tournament in the football world held for the first time in three countries: the USA, Canada, and Mexico, and there are already numerous World Cup tips for this tournament of superlatives.

For many BVB professionals, a decisive phase of their careers is beginning. In the coming months, it's not just about points in the Bundesliga or successes in Europe, but about perhaps the most important invitation in world football.

Borussia Dortmund traditionally has a squad that is strongly anchored internationally. Accordingly, the number of players who can realistically hope for a World Cup nomination is high. The focus is particularly on the German national players. In defense, Nico Schlotterbeck and Waldemar Anton have established themselves as key figures. Schlotterbeck is almost indispensable in the system of national coach Julian Nagelsmann, and Anton has consistently recommended himself with solid performances.

Groß, Adeyemi, and Beier must fight for a World Cup ticket

Photo: IMAGO

In midfield, the competition is significantly greater. Pascal Groß has played his way into the national team's focus with his performances at BVB in recent years and was regularly considered. However, in October and November, he did not receive a call from national coach Julian Nagelsmann.

Felix Nmecha worked his way back after difficult phases and is also fighting for a permanent spot in the DFB squad. Julian Brandt remains a candidate as well. His experience at the international level and his versatility could benefit him in the World Cup year.

In the offense, the situation is similarly open. Karim Adeyemi impresses with speed and dynamism and remains an option for Nagelsmann, especially on the flanks. Maximilian Beier is considered a player with potential, whose development is being closely monitored. However, the competition in the German attack is enormous, which is why consistent performances at the highest level are essential.

Besides the German players, BVB also presents numerous international national players. Gregor Kobel is the undisputed first-choice goalkeeper for Switzerland and should be set for the World Cup, provided he remains injury-free. Marcel Sabitzer is a central figure in the Austrian national team and regularly takes on leadership responsibilities there. Ramy Bensebaini is also an important component for Algeria in the fight for qualification.

With Julian Ryerson, Dortmund also provides a key player for the Norwegian national team. Norway, with its talented generation, is considered an ambitious World Cup contender, and Ryerson has established himself as a reliable option there.

As the World Cup approaches, the focus on every performance sharpens. At BVB, many professionals know: Every strong match can be a step towards North America – every weakness, however, a risk. For Dortmund's players, the 2026 World Cup is long more than a distant goal. It is drive, pressure, and motivation all at once.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.