Will Antoine Griezmann make it to the 2026 World Cup with France? We analyze statistics, current events, and his role with Les Bleus on their way to the most important tournament on the planet.
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WILL AISSA LAIDOUNI PLAY IN THE 2026 WORLD CUP?
Aïssa Laïdouni, the Tunisian midfielder who won the world's admiration during the 2022 Qatar World Cup, is one of those players who combine grit, technique, and an infectious intensity. At 29 years old and with a solid career in Europe, many fans are wondering if the engine of the Tunisian midfield will once again lead his national team at the 2026 World Cup. In this article, we explore his current situation in Germany, his role with the Tunisian national team, his most outstanding statistics, and how likely it is that he will be present at the major tournament to be played in North America.
His current situation at Union Berlin
Aïssa Laïdouni currently plays for Union Berlin in the Bundesliga, where he has established his reputation as a complete midfielder. He joined the German club in 2023 after impressing at Ferencváros in Hungary and quickly adapted to the physical and tactical pace of German football. His style combines controlled aggression with a remarkable ability to win back and distribute the ball.
During the 2024–2025 season, Laïdouni has played in more than 30 matches, averaging 10 recoveries per game and an 86% pass accuracy. He has also contributed 3 goals and 5 assists, demonstrating that he can be a decisive player in attack as well. His ability to press high and break lines has made him a key player in the Berlin system. The team's silent engine. At Union Berlin, Laïdouni plays as a box-to-box midfielder, alternating between defensive and offensive duties. His tactical intelligence allows him to balance the play between the lines, recovering balls and launching quick transitions to the forwards. He's the type of player who doesn't always shine in the statistics, but whose influence is felt in the team's fluidity. He averages more than 2.5 interceptions per game in the Bundesliga. He wins over 70% of his duels in midfield. He has started in more than 90% of the games since joining the club. He was voted "Player of the Month" by Union Berlin fans in March 2025. His intensity and leadership have made him a quiet leader. Union fans describe him as "the heart of the midfield," and it's easy to see why: his commitment, fighting spirit, and competitive mentality perfectly align with the DNA of a team that bases its success on discipline and solidarity.
Laïdouni, the soul of the “Eagles of Carthage”
Since his debut in 2021, Aïssa Laïdouni has become a pillar of the Tunisian national team. His performance at the 2022 Qatar World Cup was a revelation: in every match he displayed energy, commitment, and an impressive physical presence. Many still remember his performance against France, where Tunisia achieved a historic 1-0 victory with Laïdouni as one of the best players on the pitch.
With more than 45 international caps and a leading role in the African qualifiers for 2026, Laïdouni is considered the linchpin of the Tunisian midfield. His presence brings balance to a team that combines youth and experience, and his natural leadership positions him as one of the group's potential captains.
His stats with Tunisia
More than 45 matches with the senior national team since 2021.
Averages 1 assist every 4 matches in international tournaments.
Averages 8 recoveries per match with Tunisia.
He was included in the "Team of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations."
In the Qualifiers for In 2026, Tunisia is in a good position, thanks to a solid defense and a midfield that relies on the tenacity of Laïdouni. His understanding with Ellyes Skhiri and Hannibal Mejbri has formed a trident that blends experience, youthful talent, and tactical balance. Furthermore, his influence transcends football. Laïdouni is seen as a positive leader in the locker room: he encourages his teammates, instills confidence, and remains calm under pressure. His emotional connection with the Tunisian public is also strong: after each match, he usually thanks the fans with gestures and messages in Arabic and French, which has made him a beloved and respected idol.
What does Tunisia (and Laïdouni) need to get there?
The objective is clear: Tunisia wants to return to the World Cup, and Laïdouni will be fundamental to achieving it. In the current African qualifying phase, the North African team remains near the top of its group. The team has shown defensive solidity and tactical discipline, virtues that bear the mark of its star midfielder.
Key factors for their presence at the World Cup
Physical condition: Laïdouni has demonstrated great stamina and exceptional physical condition. Maintaining that form will be vital to reaching peak performance in 2026.
Performance in Europe: His continued presence in the Bundesliga guarantees a competitive rhythm and top-level tactical demands.
Regularity with the national team: As long as he remains a starter and leader in midfield, his call-up is practically guaranteed.
Health and motivation: If he avoids injuries and maintains his motivation, Laïdouni will be a regular in the squad.
At 30 years old by the 2026 World Cup, the player will be at his peak as a footballer. It's the age when midfielders combine experience with peak physical condition, something that could make him one of the most influential players in the tournament if Tunisia manages to qualify. The "Eagles of Carthage" aren't content with just participating. After the impressive performance they delivered in Qatar, they want to go one step further and advance to the next round. And if there's anyone who can push the team forward with his energy and quiet leadership, it's Aïssa Laïdouni.
Fun Facts about Aïssa Laïdouni
He was born in France, but chose to represent Tunisia because of his family roots.
During the 2022 World Cup, his jersey was one of the best-selling in Tunisia.
He speaks four languages: French, Arabic, English, and Hungarian.
In 2020, he was voted the best foreign player in Hungarian football.
His idol is Gennaro Gattuso, for his tenacious style and leadership. So, if someone asks, “Will Aïssa Laïdouni play in the 2026 World Cup?”, the most likely answer is yes. Everything indicates that, barring a serious injury or a tactical surprise, the Union Berlin midfielder will once again wear the Tunisian colors at the World Cup. His consistency, his love for the shirt, and his competitive mentality make him an indispensable player for his national team. In short, Laïdouni represents the essence of modern Tunisian football: hard work, discipline, and national pride. If Tunisia qualifies, he will be the heart and soul of the team, ready to battle for every ball with his characteristic intensity. And if there's one thing he's proven throughout his career, it's that you should never underestimate his ability to surprise.
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