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WILL EDIN DZEKO PLAY IN THE 2026 WORLD CUP?

Edin Džeko, one of Europe's most iconic strikers of the last two decades, faces a major question: will he be at the 2026 World Cup? At 39, many wonder if the "Swan of Sarajevo" has what it takes for one last major tournament with the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team. In this article, we analyze his current situation, the state of his team, interesting facts about his career, and how realistic the dream of seeing him once again at the world's biggest international competition really is.

Dzeko's Present on the Road to the 2026 World Cup


Edin Dzeko will turn 40 in March 2026, just a few months before the World Cup. He currently plays for Fenerbahçe in Turkey, where he continues to impress with goals and leadership. In the 2024-2025 season, he has already scored more than 15 goals and is a key player in the fight for the Turkish Super League title. His physique remains strong, and although his speed may not be what it once was, his goal-scoring instinct and experience compensate for any physical shortcomings.


Is he motivated to continue?


In several interviews, Džeko has said that the World Cup is a thorn in his side. Bosnia has only been to one World Cup (Brazil 2014), and he was the star player. Although he has not yet officially confirmed his intentions, people close to the striker say that his goal is to be at the 2026 World Cup, if his body holds up and if his team qualifies.


  • Age for 2026: 40 years old

  • Current club: Fenerbahçe

  • Goals 2024/25 (until October): 16

  • Last match with Bosnia: September 2023

  • Key statement: "If I'm fit, I'll go"


He wouldn't be the first veteran to play in a World Cup. Roger Milla played at 42 in 1994, and more recently, Dani Alves was called up to Qatar at 39. With good performance and desire, anything is possible for Džeko.

Bosnia's Road to the World Cup


For Edin Džeko to even think about playing in the World Cup, Bosnia and Herzegovina needs to qualify, and that won't be easy. In recent years, the national team has experienced significant ups and downs. They are currently outside the direct qualification spots in the UEFA qualifiers, and their performance in the Nations League wasn't particularly impressive either.


Is there hope for Bosnia?


The team has been revamped with young players like Amar Dedić, Jusuf Gazibegović, and Benjamin Tahirović, but it still lacks the pedigree to compete against teams like France, the Netherlands, or Croatia. Džeko remains an absolute icon, even off the field. His presence in the locker room and his example of professionalism are key for the younger players.


  • FIFA Ranking (October 2025): 68

  • Last World Cup Qualification: 2014

  • Current Coach: Meho Kodro

  • Average Squad Age: 25.3 years

  • All-Time Top Scorer: Edin Džeko (65)


In short, Bosnia has a chance, but will need a combination of collective performance, some luck in the knockout rounds, and perhaps one last dance from the golden number 9 to pull off the feat.


The world of football is buzzing with anticipation. The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, and national teams are battling for their place in the biggest tournament, where every match defines the dreams and hopes of millions of fans.With three host countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—this edition promises to be historic: more teams, more goals, and a unique global experience. Coaches are fine-tuning their strategies, and players are vying for their ticket to the most anticipated tournament.The countdown has begun. The ball is about to start rolling, and the whole world awaits the moment a new chapter begins.The World Cup is almost here… and the passion is palpable.

The world of football is buzzing with anticipation. The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, and national teams are battling for their place in the biggest tournament, where every match defines the dreams and hopes of millions of fans.With three host countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—this edition promises to be historic: more teams, more goals, and a unique global experience. Coaches are fine-tuning their strategies, and players are vying for their ticket to the most anticipated tournament.The countdown has begun. The ball is about to start rolling, and the whole world awaits the moment a new chapter begins.The World Cup is almost here… and the passion is palpable.

Fun Facts and Legacy of Edin Džeko


Beyond his goals and his impact on football, Edin Džeko is a figure steeped in history, humanity, and charisma. Born in Sarajevo during the Balkan War, Džeko grew up amidst bombings, playing football in ruins. That resilience shaped his character. Today he is a UNICEF ambassador and speaks five languages.


Fun Facts about a Silent Idol


Many don't know that he is a huge basketball fan and that he almost pursued a career in the sport. Furthermore, he is considered one of the most underrated strikers of his generation, despite having scored over 300 goals for clubs and holding records with Bosnia.


  • Speaks: Bosnian, English, German, Czech, and Italian

  • Husband of model Amra Silajdžić

  • Won titles in England, Germany, and Italy

  • Nicknamed “The Swan of Sarajevo”

  • Founded a football academy in Bosnia


His legacy goes beyond goals. Džeko is a symbol of peace, effort, and overcoming adversity. Whether or not he makes it to the 2026 World Cup, his name is already written in gold in the history of European football.

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