Sweden Faces Injury Blow and Squad Changes Ahead of Crucial Switzerland World Cup Qualifier

The Swedish national football team is grappling with significant injury setbacks ahead of a vital World Cup qualifying match against Switzerland in November 2025. Several key players, including Victor Nilsson Lindelöf, Dejan Kulusevski, Viktor Gyökeres, Hugo Larsson, and Lucas Bergvall, are ruled out or sidelined with various injuries. Lindelöf, the team captain, is recovering from a minor injury and will not feature in the match but aims to return for the subsequent game against Slovenia. Alexander Isak, a crucial forward also struggling with a groin injury, will be on the bench as he is not deemed ready for a full 90 minutes yet. In Lindelöf’s absence, defender Isak Hien has been appointed captain for the fixture, signaling confidence in the squad's resilience despite limited personnel.

New head coach Graham Potter, making his debut in charge amid these challenges, inherits a team burdened with only one point from four qualifiers and a diminished sense of identity and confidence. Potter has focused training on bolstering the defense and rebuilding the team's morale during sessions in Marbella, underscoring the importance of utilizing the available players effectively. Sweden's prospects hinge on securing a win in Switzerland and relying on other group results, specifically Slovenia defeating Kosovo, to contend for second place in the qualifying group.

Despite the adversity, Potter remains optimistic about the squad’s attitude and preparation. The upcoming game is viewed as a key opportunity for Sweden to demonstrate improvement under new leadership and begin restoring its stature in European football. The team's performance is critical not only to its World Cup ambitions but also to Potter's tenure as head coach and the broader future outlook for Swedish football.