- Jeremy van Dyk
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When Jon Dahl Tomasson, the 48‑year‑old Danish coach who has steered the Sweden national football team since January 2023, unveiled the line‑up for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 QualifiersFriends Arena in Solna, the reaction was immediate. The 31‑man roster, announced on 27 August 2025, includes a surprising nod to striker Alexander Isak despite his unsettled transfer negotiations with Newcastle United. Here’s why the decision matters for Sweden’s chances of reaching the 2026 World Cup in North America.
Background: Sweden’s Position in Group G
Sweden currently sits second in UEFA Group G with seven points from three matches, trailing Austria by two points. The group winner punches an automatic ticket to the tournament, while the runner‑up must survive a playoff in March 2026. After a solid Nations League run in 2025, the Swedes are banking on a balanced mix of experience and youth to tip the scales in October’s double‑header against Slovenia and Kosovo.
Squad Details – A Blend of Veterans and Rising Stars
The Sweden squad features three goalkeepers: Viktor Johansson (Stoke City), seasoned international Robin Olsen (Malmö FF) and veteran Kristoffer Nordfeldt (AIK). On defence, captain Isak Hien of Atalanta leads a back‑line that includes Gabriel Gudmundsson (Leeds United) and 18‑year‑old prodigy John Mellberg (RB Salzburg). Midfield offers a mix of creativity and grit, with Dejan Kulusevski (Tottenham Hotspur) and Yasin Ayari (Brighton & Hove Albion) anchoring the centre.
Up front, the headline names are Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyökeres (Arsenal). Gyökeres arrives with a striking 9‑goal tally in six national‑team appearances, while Isak has netted four in four Nations League outings. Supporting the front line are Jordan Larsson (FC Copenhagen) and Benjamin Nygren (Celtic).
Isak’s Transfer Saga – Why Tomasson Still Wants Him
The biggest headline‑grabber is the inclusion of Isak, who has been entangled in a €120 million transfer saga. Since signing a six‑year deal with Newcastle United in August 2022, the striker has been linked with moves to Manchester United, Chelsea and even a return to La Liga. Reports suggest Newcastle’s asking price has risen after a strong start to the Premier League season, but talks remain at an impasse.
Tomasson addressed the situation in a press conference: “I am very happy that Alexander wants to be in the squad. He is a huge player. The situation he is in is not perfect, and he has not trained with the team.” The manager’s candor reflects both a belief in Isak’s quality and a pragmatic need for a proven goal‑scorer as Sweden eyes the top spot.
Analysts note that keeping Isak signals continuity—Sweden has scored 11 goals in five competitive fixtures this year, with Isak accounting for a third. Removing him could thin the attacking options, especially against disciplined defenses like Slovenia’s.
Match Outlook – Slovenia and Kosovo
First up, Slovenia on 7 October 2025 at 20:45 CET. The Slovenes have been defensively solid, conceding just one goal in their last three qualifiers. Sweden will likely deploy a 4‑2‑3‑1, with Isak leading the line, Kulusevski roaming behind, and Gyökeres providing a target‑man alternative.
Three days later, Kosovo arrives at 18:00 CET. Kosovo’s recent form has been erratic, but they possess a fearless attacking trio capable of testing any defence. Sweden’s depth—particularly the midfield versatility of Sebastian Nanasi (Strasbourg) and Gustaf Nilsson (Club Brugge)—could be the differentiator.
Both matches will be played at Friends Arena, a 54,329‑seat venue in Solna that has hosted numerous internationals since its opening in 2012. The stadium’s modern pitch and passionate Swedish fans create an atmosphere that often boosts the home side.
Implications for Qualification
Winning both fixtures would catapult Sweden to 13 points, likely clinching the group. A draw with Slovenia followed by a win over Kosovo would keep the race open but still favor the Swedes, given Austria’s recent dip in form. A slip‑up, however, could hand Austria a decisive edge, forcing Sweden into the March 2026 playoffs.
Statistically, Sweden scores an average of 2.2 goals per game in qualifiers, while conceding just 0.9. Adding Isak’s proven finishing could lift the goal average above 2.5—a threshold that historically correlates with group‑topping campaigns.
What’s Next – Training, Friendlies, and Final Preparations
Following the squad announcement, the team will convene for a two‑week training camp at the Åland Islands, where Tomasson plans to run tactical drills focused on set‑piece organisation—an area Sweden has struggled with in the past. A friendly against Denmark on 20 September 2025 will serve as the final test before the qualifiers.
Meanwhile, the transfer market will keep the spotlight on Isak. Should Newcastle reach a settlement before the first qualifier, Isak could join a new club immediately after the campaign, potentially altering his role in the squad’s dynamics.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Alexander Isak’s inclusion affect Sweden’s attacking options?
Isak provides a proven goal‑scoring threat, having netted four in four Nations League matches. His presence offers Tomasson a focal point in the final third, freeing Gyökeres to play a supporting role. If Isak were omitted, Sweden would lose a player capable of converting limited chances against tight defenses like Slovenia’s.
What are Sweden’s chances of topping Group G?
If Sweden win both October matches, they will reach 13 points, a tally that historically secures first place. Even a draw‑win combo keeps them within striking distance, provided Austria drops points. The squad’s defensive solidity and added firepower from Isak tilt the odds in Sweden’s favor.
When and where will the qualifiers be played?
Both games are set at Friends Arena in Solna, Sweden. The match against Slovenia kicks off on 7 October 2025 at 20:45 CET, while the Kosovo fixture follows on 10 October 2025 at 18:00 CET.
What impact could the transfer saga have on Isak’s performance?
Uncertainty can be a distraction, but Tomasson’s public backing aims to shield Isak from media pressure. Historically, players in similar situations have either risen to the occasion or underperformed; early training sessions will reveal how Isak adapts.
Who are the key players to watch besides Isak?
Viktor Gyökeres (Arsenal) with his nine‑goal haul, Dejan Kulusevski (Tottenham) for his creativity, and captain Isak Hien (Atalanta) anchoring the defence are all crucial. In midfield, Sebastian Nanasi’s playmaking for Strasbourg could unlock tight games.
1 Comments
Keeping Isak is a dumb move; Sweden will choke without a proper backup striker.