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 MILAN SKRINIAR PLAY IN THE 2026 WORLD CUP?
Milan Skriniar, the Slovakian center-back who earned the respect of all of Europe with his firmness, leadership, and composure, has been a key player for the Slovakian national team for the last decade. Now, at 31 years old and playing for PSG, the big question is whether we'll see him at the 2026 World Cup. Will he be in shape? Will he still be a leader for his team? In this article, we tell you everything about his current condition, his statistics, interesting facts about his career, and what he has said about this possible final World Cup.
His current situation at PSG and with the national team
Milan Skriniar signed for Paris Saint-Germain in 2023 after shining for years at Inter Milan. Although his arrival generated high expectations, his first year in France has been a mix of ups and downs. Minor injuries and rotation have limited him, but when he plays, he commands respect.
In the 2023-24 season, he played 22 Ligue 1 matches and 6 in the Champions League. He remained a defender with great passing accuracy (91%) and an average of 1.9 clearances per game. Furthermore, he remains one of the quiet leaders in the Parisian dressing room.
Constant presence with Slovakia
As for the national team, Skriniar has been indispensable. Captain since 2021, he played in 9 of the 10 Euro 2024 qualifying matches. His leadership, tactical discipline, and ability to command the defense make him the heart of the Slovakian backline. 22 Ligue 1 appearances (23/24) 6 Champions League appearances 91% pass accuracy Captain of Slovakia since 2021 No recent serious injuries With two years to prepare and a stable fitness level, Milan has a serious chance to reach the 2026 World Cup as a defensive pillar of his country.
What he has said about the World Cup and his future
Milan Skriniar isn't one to talk much in public, but when he does, he's direct. In an interview with the Slovak newspaper Pravda in April 2024, he said: “As long as my body allows me, I want to continue helping Slovakia. Playing in a World Cup is my eternal dream.”
That statement made it clear that 2026 is on his radar. Furthermore, in press conferences with PSG, he has also said that staying fit and competitive is his main objective to continue representing his country at the highest level. The coaching staff's vision: Francesco Calzona, coach of the Slovakian national team, has been clear: “Milan is fundamental to our structure. He is our natural leader.” He has even stated that he wants him in the next qualifying process for the World Cup.
He publicly declared his desire to continue
He has a contract with PSG until 2028
The national coach considers him indispensable
He actively participated in Euro 2024
No plans for international retirement in the short term
With that mentality and support, it is very likely that we will see Skriniar leading the Slovakian defense in 2026, even if he doesn't arrive as an undisputed starter, but as a reference point and a commanding voice.
Why he would be key at the World Cup
Having Milan Skriniar at the 2026 World Cup would mean a lot for Slovakia. Not only because of his experience, but because he remains one of the most intelligent and reliable defenders in Europe. His tactical awareness and anticipation are key in short tournaments, where mistakes are extremely costly.
Furthermore, Skriniar can take on a mentor role for the young defenders coming up through the ranks.
His knowledge of top-level European play, combined with his composure in critical moments, makes him a player that cannot be overlooked. A legacy in the making. If he manages to reach 2026, it would be his first World Cup appearance, as Slovakia did not qualify in 2018 or 2022. Therefore, his hunger remains undiminished. He himself has said it: “I want to play in a World Cup, even if it's the last chapter of my career.” Skriniar not only has what it takes physically, but also mentally and emotionally. If Slovakia manages to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, no one doubts that Milan will be there. And not just to comply, but to compete with everything.
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