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WILL SERGEJ MILINKOVIC-SAVIC PLAY IN THE 2026 WORLD CUP?

Sergej Milinkovic-Savic is one of the most promising talents Serbian football has produced in recent years. With his physical attributes, technique, and vision, he has shone both in Europe and during his recent stint in Saudi Arabia. But will he be at the 2026 World Cup? In this article, we review his current situation, his career with Serbia, and what would need to happen for us to see him at the next World Cup.

2025-12-05

Milinkovic-Savic's Present in 2025

Sergej Milinkovic-Savic, born in Lleida, Spain, but developed as a footballer in Serbia, has had a career that has combined Balkan technique with physical power. After years shining at Lazio, in 2023 he made an unexpected leap to Saudi football with Al Hilal, where he has been a key player.

In 2024-2025 he has been one of the most consistent players in the Saudi Pro League, both in goals and assists. Although many doubted his decision to go to Saudi Arabia, Sergej has shown that his level remains undiminished. An exotic luxury or a current star? Many thought he was "retiring young" by leaving Europe at only 28. But the numbers tell a different story: leadership, creativity, and greater attacking responsibility in midfield. Furthermore, he remains one of the key figures in the Serbian national team.

Age at the 2026 World Cup: 31 years
Minutes played in 2024-25: 3,100+
Current club: Al Hilal
World Cup appearances: 2 (2018, 2022)
Physical condition: no serious injuries in the last year

Milinkovic continues to perform at a high level. If he maintains this pace and Serbia qualifies, everything indicates that we will see him on the final list.

His performance with the Serbian national team

Since his debut with Serbia in 2017, Sergej has been a regular in the squad. Although at first he had to earn the respect of the coaches, today he is part of the hard core of the national team, along with Tadic, Vlahovic and Mitrovic.

Statistics with the Serbia shirt

Matches played: 51
Goals: 9
Assists: 10
Pass completion rate: 86%
Shots per game: 1.8

At the World Cup in Qatar In 2022, he played all three group stage matches, scoring a goal against Cameroon. Although Serbia didn't advance, he was one of the players who impressed. His ability to occupy space, play between the lines, and arrive from deep remains a valuable asset.

What does Sergej bring to the system?

His style blends power with class. He can play as an attacking midfielder, a double pivot, or even a second striker if the team needs him to. Furthermore, he's tall (1.92m), making him a constant aerial threat.

And that, in a tournament as tight as a World Cup, can make all the difference.

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.

What can happen on the road to 2026?

Serbia seeks revenge. After the disappointment in Qatar, where they failed to advance from the group stage, the generation of Sergej, Tadic, and company wants to finally reach the round of 16 or beyond. With a competitive, but surmountable, qualifying group, Serbia has a good chance of making it to the 2026 World Cup.