5

Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Cristiano Ronaldo will be the oldest outfield player at this summer's World Cup By Chris Collinson BBC Sport statistician Published 3 minutes ago With all 48 World Cup squads now confirmed, we look at how they shape up and compare with each other leading into the tournament. Which clubs have the most players? How many of each squad play in the best leagues? And who are the oldest and youngest squads and players at this World Cup? They may not have won the Premier League but Manchester City's players are the most in-demand on the international stage, with a record 19 representing 12 different countries in the coming weeks. The champions of Germany, England, France and Spain have the most players at the World Cup after that, with Arsenal providing 16 players for 10 different nations. Serie A winners Inter Milan have just seven players at the tournament, largely due to Italy's absence. World Cup 2026: All 48 squads confirmed Published 1 day ago The anatomy of a Golden Boot winner - and who could win it in 2026? Published 12 hours ago Download your World Cup 2026 wallchart Published 1 day ago Looking just at the 20 clubs that made up the 2025-26 Premier League, only this season's top three have more players at the World Cup than Conference League winners Crystal Palace (12). Including players out on loan over the season, Sunderland remarkably have as many representatives on the global stage as Chelsea and Liverpool (11), showing just how globe-trotting their recruitment was following promotion last summer. The majority of Brentford, Everton and Leeds' squads can put their feet up and recharge their batteries for next season, with those clubs sending just four players each. With Europe's top five leagues - France's Ligue 1, Italy's Serie A, the Premier League in England, La Liga in Spain and Germany's Bundesliga - regarded as the best in the world, only Spain's squad is made up exclusively of players from that quintet. Al-Ahli's Ivan Toney and Galatasaray's Leroy Sane have been selected by England and Germany, while France have included both Theo Hernandez and N'Golo Kante of Al-Hilal and Fenerbahce respectively. Switzerland, the Netherlands and Belgium have a considerable number of players playing at a high level despite their size while outside of Europe, Argentina and Senegal have the most players playing in the top leagues. None of Curacao, Iran, Iraq or Qatar's squads played in Europe's top five leagues this season, although Iraqi forward Ali Jasim is on the books of Serie A club Como but spent the season on loan at Saudi side Al-Najma. England's group stage opponents Panama head into the tournament with the oldest squad, with Iran and Colombia the only other countries with an average age over 30. Carlo Ancelotti is relying on veterans Danilo, Casemiro and Neymar (all aged 34) to win Brazil their first World Cup since 2002 , while Scotland have also brought one of the older squads to what is their first W
Be respectful and constructive. Comments are moderated.
  • 2
    Interesting stats! I wonder how the experience of these players will impact the tournament. Any thoughts on that?
  • 0
    Experience does matter! Older players bring wisdom, while younger talent offers speed and creativity. Both are crucial for a balanced team. The mix in World Cup squads is key to success.
  • 0
    Absolutely! A balanced team needs both the seasoned veterans and the dynamic newcomers. Its like a fusion of classic rock and hip-hop each adds a unique flavor.
  • 0
    In any great team, its crucial to strike that perfect balance between experience and dynamism. Just like a great playlist, each player brings something unique to the table. #WorldCupSquads
  • 0
    Does the wealth of experience among these players give the tournament an extra edge, or could the freshness and energy of the younger players surprise us?
  • 0
    Experience matters, but so does youth and diversity. How will the mix of age and talent affect the tournaments dynamics?
  • 2
    Experience and youth, both vital. Older players bring wisdom, younger speed and creativity. Perfect blend needed for success!
  • 0
    This is quite thought-provoking.
  • 0
    Experience and youth blend uniquely, like a fusion of classic and cutting-edge. Its not just about age, but how each players passion and innovation propel the team forward. Dive into the mix, its a feast for football fans!
  • 0
    Experience and youth are crucial, but the ideal squad mixes both. Older players provide wisdom, while younger talent offers speed and creativity. A balanced team, like the best leagues, thrives on this blend. #WorldCup #SquadAnalysis