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 PIERO HINCAPIE PLAY IN THE 2026 WORLD CUP?
Piero Hincapié, Bayer Leverkusen's central defender, has become one of the most solid players on the Ecuadorian national team. After a standout World Cup in Qatar 2022, where he was an undisputed starter at just 20 years old, many are wondering if he'll also be present at the 2026 World Cup. In this article, we break down his current situation in European football, his statistics with La Tri, interesting facts about his career, and what Ecuador—and he—need to qualify for the big tournament in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
How Hincapié is getting to 2026
Piero Hincapié is not only on the list of future World Cup players: he's practically confirmed, if he stays healthy. Since his breakthrough at the 2021 Copa América and his consolidation in the South American Qualifiers, the young defender has shown a maturity that is surprising for his age. At just 22 years old, he already has more than 30 appearances with the Ecuadorian national team, where he has been a regular starter under different coaches.
He currently plays for Bayer Leverkusen in Germany, the undefeated 2024 Bundesliga champions, where he has been a valuable rotation player in Xabi Alonso's defense. Although he wasn't always a starter last season, his versatility in playing as a left-sided center-back or full-back keeps him on the radar of major clubs and in the plans of the Ecuadorian coaching staff. A solid presence with the national team. Hincapié is one of those players who never drops his level when he wears the Ecuadorian jersey. He participated in every match of the 2022 Qatar World Cup, standing out for his game reading, anticipation, and clean distribution from the back. His connection with Félix Torres and Pervis Estupiñán has shaped a defensive line that combines youth, talent, and international experience. He debuted for the senior national team in 2021. He played in all of Ecuador's matches at Qatar 2022. He is part of the starting eleven in the CONMEBOL qualifiers for 2026. He can play as a center-back or left-back.
Statistics and performance at clubs
Since his move to European football in 2021, Hincapié has shown a consistent improvement. After shining at Talleres de Córdoba in Argentina, he was signed by Bayer Leverkusen for €8 million. Since then, he has played over 80 official matches for the German club, including Bundesliga, German Cup, and European competitions.
Although not a prolific goalscorer, he has contributed some important goals from set pieces. His duel winning percentage is over 65%, and his passing accuracy is above 90%, making him a reliable option for playing out from the back. Furthermore, his speed and good timing make him ideal for covering large spaces when the team plays with a high line. A historic season in Leverkusen. The 2023-24 season was historic for Bayer Leverkusen: they were crowned undefeated Bundesliga champions and reached the Europa League final. Although Hincapié didn't start every match, he played a key role in difficult games, especially when there were absences due to injuries or squad rotation. His tactical discipline and attacking prowess down the left flank have attracted the attention of English and Spanish clubs, which could lead to a high-profile transfer before the World Cup.
More than 80 official matches with Bayer Leverkusen.
Undefeated Bundesliga champion 2024.
Pass completion rate: 91%.
Has played in the Champions League, Europa League and German Cup.
Estimated market value: 35 million euros.
What does he need to reach 2026?
Although everything points to Hincapié being one of Ecuador's leaders in 2026, the road is not without obstacles. First, the national team must secure qualification in the CONMEBOL qualifiers, where the competition is fierce. Fortunately, the new format with more spots provides a bit more leeway, and Ecuador has already secured important points in the first half of the process.
Key factors to secure his presence
Hincapié needs to stay in shape, continue accumulating quality minutes at his club, and avoid injuries. Furthermore, his ability to assume a leadership role in defense could be crucial to establishing himself as a key figure in this golden generation of Ecuadorian football. Internal competition is also a challenge: players like Willian Pacho and Jackson Porozo are developing and could see playing time, but Hincapié has the advantage of World Cup experience and European exposure. An important detail: his mental maturity is remarkable. He doesn't let it go to his head, he doesn't get involved in controversies, and he always delivers on the pitch. If she continues on this path, she'll be a sure thing on the final roster for the 2026 World Cup.
Ecuador must consolidate its qualification in the qualifiers.
Avoid injuries and maintain competitive rhythm in Europe.
Continue gaining experience and playing time in international tournaments.
Assume leadership within the national team.
Maintain regularity in call-ups and FIFA friendlies.
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