Turkey announces 26-player squad for 2026 World Cup

Turkey has announced its final 26-player squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking the national team’s return to the tournament for the first time in 24 years. Head coach Vincenzo Montella confirmed the selection on Tuesday, the deadline for squad submissions, ahead of the competition hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The squad is built around a core of prominent European-based talents, including Real Madrid playmaker Arda Güler, Juventus forward Kenan Yıldız, and Inter Milan captain Hakan Çalhanoğlu. The roster blends these emerging stars with established players from Turkey’s domestic Super League. The team will depart for its base camp in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, following a final warm-up match against Venezuela on June 7.

Turkey qualified for the World Cup through a dramatic playoff campaign, defeating Romania and Kosovo to secure one of Europe’s final spots. This will be only the nation’s third appearance at the finals, with its most notable run being a third-place finish in 2002. Under Montella, who took charge in 2023, the team has shown greater tactical discipline and consistency, following a promising performance at the 2024 European Championship.