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WILL MATEO KOVACIC PLAY IN THE 2026 WORLD CUP?

Mateo Kovacic has been a key player in Croatia's golden generation that captivated the world at the 2018 World Cup in Russia and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. With 32 years projected for the next World Cup, many are wondering if he will still be a fixture in the checkered midfield. This article explores his current situation at Manchester City, his influence on the national team, recent statistics, and expert opinions. We also share some little-known facts about his career. If you're passionate about international football and the unsung heroes of the midfield, this analysis is for you.

What is Mateo Kovacic's current situation?


Mateo Kovacic, born in Linz, Austria in 1994 to Croatian parents, has earned his place as one of the most reliable midfielders in Europe. He currently plays for Manchester City under Pep Guardiola, where he arrived after a successful spell at Chelsea.


During the 2024/25 season, Kovacic has played in more than 40 official matches across the Premier League, Champions League, and domestic cups. While he isn't your typical goalscoring midfielder, his contribution is quiet but vital: 91% pass accuracy, 1.7 interceptions per game, and an extremely high ball recovery rate. His role is to balance the game, connect lines, and break pressure with clean dribbling.


A veteran with plenty of playing time left


At 31 years old now and 32 by the World Cup, Mateo is in his prime. It doesn't depend on speed, but on understanding the game, which allows him to remain competitive at the highest level. 5-time league champion between Spain and England. More than 100 caps for Croatia. Champions League winner with Real Madrid. 2018 World Cup finalist and 2022 semi-finalist. In short, he remains one of the best box-to-box midfielders in European football. His experience and tactical awareness keep him a key player for both his club and country.

Does he have a realistic chance of going to the World Cup?


The short answer: yes, and quite likely. Barring a long-term injury or an unexpected dip in form, Kovacic is a fixture on Zlatko Dalic's Croatian national team roster. In fact, he has started in key matches on the road to Euro 2024 and also in World Cup qualifiers.


In the last six matches with the national team, he has started five, providing balance to the midfield alongside Luka Modric and Marcelo Brozovic. As Modric nears international retirement, Kovacic is poised to take on an even more prominent role. Analysts agree that Kovacic could fulfill a similar role to Modric's at Qatar 2022: fewer kilometers covered, but more intelligence, composure, and key decisions. It wouldn't be surprising if the 2026 World Cup is his last, and he says goodbye wearing the checkered jersey.

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.

Interesting facts and what the experts say


Beyond his statistics, Kovacic is admired by coaches and teammates for his humility and work ethic. Guardiola has praised him in numerous press conferences for his “tactical intelligence and reliability off the ball.” He is also a very reserved footballer, with a low media profile, but a career full of titles and decisive moments. Did you know...? He speaks five languages: Croatian, English, Spanish, German, and Italian. He made his professional debut at 16 with Dinamo Zagreb. He was a teammate of Cristiano Ronaldo, Messi, and Haaland at different times. He is very devout and often crosses himself. Before each match, according to Opta data, Kovacic has an average passing accuracy of 89.7% in international matches, one of the highest among European midfielders. Furthermore, he has completed more than 500 successful dribbles in his career, a figure that speaks to his ability to break lines. Former teammates such as Cesc Fàbregas and Luka Modric have described him as “the silent cog that makes the team work.” He may not be the most high-profile player, but when he's not there, you notice.

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