WILL SALEM AL-DAWSARI PLAY IN THE 2026 WORLD CUP?

From Jeddah to Asian Stardom

Salem Mohammed Al-Dawsari was born in 1991 in Taif, Saudi Arabia. From a very young age, he displayed extraordinary speed and technical talent. At 18, he joined Al-Hilal, the country's most successful club, and quickly became one of its most beloved figures. Over the years, he has become a symbol of perseverance and dedication.

His style is electrifying: he combines dribbling, changes of pace, and a precise left foot. In Asia, few players possess his ability to unbalance defenses in one-on-one situations.

Furthermore, his winning mentality has made him a leader both on and off the pitch at Al-Hilal, where he shares the field with international stars like Neymar and Mitrović. In 2018, before the World Cup in Russia, Al-Dawsari had a brief but significant experience in Europe, on loan to Villarreal in Spain. Although he played few minutes, this adventure helped him understand the intensity of European football and return to his country with a more competitive mindset. In that same year, he played in his first World Cup and scored a goal against Egypt, leaving his mark. With these credentials, it's no exaggeration to say that Salem Al-Dawsari is one of the most successful players in the history of Arab football. And the best part: his competitive level remains high despite his age.

Saudi Arabia wants to surprise again

Saudi Arabia was one of the sensations of the 2022 World Cup. Their 2-1 victory against Argentina—with a stunning goal from Salem Al-Dawsari—was one of the biggest upsets in World Cup history. That day, the whole world discovered the grit, technique, and confidence of a team that played without inhibitions. Now, the challenge is even greater: to qualify again and maintain that level of competitiveness heading into 2026.

The Saudi team is undergoing a generational transition. However, figures like Al-Dawsari, Salman Al-Faraj, and Mohammed Kanno remain the pillars of experience.

Despite being 35 years old when the 2026 World Cup arrives, Salem maintains impressive physical condition and a performance that hasn't declined.

Recent statistics that support this

• 2024-25 Season: 14 goals and 10 assists in 32 matches with Al-Hilal.

• Direct involvement in a goal every 110 minutes in the Saudi Pro League.

• Shot accuracy average: 68%.

• Dribbing success rate of 73%, among the best in Asia.

Furthermore, he remains indispensable to the Saudi national team. In the Asian qualifiers for the 2026 World Cup, he has participated in the majority of matches and continues to contribute goals and leadership. The data is clear: as long as his body stays in shape, his talent remains intact.

What the experts say

Former players and analysts in Saudi Arabia agree that Salem has everything it takes to reach the 2026 World Cup. Nawaf Al-Temyat, a former Saudi international, stated: “He is an exemplary professional. If he continues like this, he will not only play in the World Cup, but he will be our captain and leader.” Meanwhile, media outlets like Arab News and Kooora highlight that his physical and mental consistency keeps him among the top five players in Asia. Even rival coaches praise him. In the Asian Champions League, Korean and Japanese coaches have described Al-Dawsari as "the most unpredictable player on the continent." There's no doubt: if Saudi Arabia qualifies, Salem's place is practically guaranteed.

Beyond the ball: humility, discipline, and family

Al-Dawsari doesn't just shine on the field; his personal story is also inspiring. From humble origins, he has remained true to his roots. In every interview, he speaks of the value of hard work, respect, and family as the driving force behind his career. His calm demeanor off the field contrasts sharply with the intensity with which he plays.

Interesting facts that few know

• His goal against Argentina in Qatar 2022 was the most-watched in Saudi television history.

• He is a Real Madrid fan and admires Cristiano Ronaldo, with whom he now shares a league.

• He has a foundation that supports young athletes in Taif, his hometown.

• He speaks fluent English and often encourages his younger teammates to study languages.

His discipline is legendary. He trains extra hours, meticulously watches his diet, and avoids excesses. Al-Hilal's physical trainers say his physical condition is comparable to that of a 28-year-old player. That level of commitment is what has allowed him to remain at the top for more than a decade. 2026 World Cup Projection: If Saudi Arabia manages to qualify, which seems likely considering their dominance in Asia, Salem Al-Dawsari will be a key player. Although he would be 35, his experience and leadership could be invaluable on a team with many emerging young players. His role could evolve: less running, more intelligence and control of the game's tempo, something he has already shown in recent tournaments. He has captained the national team in more than 50 matches. He participated in two consecutive World Cups (2018 and 2022). He is Saudi Arabia's second all-time leading scorer in World Cups (3 goals). Furthermore, his competitive mentality makes him a role model within the group. If he manages to stay injury-free and maintains his form at Al-Hilal, everything points to 2026 being his third World Cup. And beyond the statistics, Salem represents something deeper: the pride of a country that has grown in football thanks to its golden generation. In short, the answer seems clear: yes, Salem Al-Dawsari has a great chance of playing in the 2026 World Cup. His experience, leadership, and talent remain vital for the Saudi national team. And if he makes it, he won't just be another player, but the symbol of a nation that believes Arab dreams can also shine on the global stage. Because if Salem has demonstrated anything throughout his career, it's that age is no obstacle when passion remains undiminished. The Saudi captain is ready to make history again… and who knows, maybe surprise the world once more.