Sweden Kicks Off 2026 World Cup Preparations Amid Player Fitness Concerns and Weather Challenges

The Swedish national football team has officially commenced its preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the squad gathering in Stockholm earlier this week for crucial training camps and friendly matches. Head coach Graham Potter, who took over the team last fall, is focused on integrating the players into his tactical vision during a limited preparation window before departing for further training in the United States.

Despite challenging weather conditions that delayed their first training session in Bosön, Lidingö, the team engaged in warm-ups and tactical drills, though some sessions were cut short due to heavy rain and strong winds. Notable player absences include striker Viktor Gyökeres, who remains committed to Arsenal's Champions League final, preventing his participation in initial training and friendlies. Potter expressed understanding of Gyökeres' situation, emphasizing the importance of players finishing club commitments.

Player fitness remains a central concern, with star forward Alexander Isak still recovering from a leg fracture and other injuries, making his World Cup readiness uncertain. Defenders Carl Starfelt and Gabriel Gudmundsson also work through injury recoveries, with Starfelt further from match fitness. Potter highlighted the variability in player match readiness and the need for close evaluation during these preparation days.

Sweden’s training schedule includes two friendly matches — against Norway on June 1 and Greece on June 4 — before traveling to the USA for further training ahead of the World Cup. The Swedish squad features a diverse mix of goalkeepers, defenders, midfielders, and forwards, as Potter seeks to build cohesion and tactical familiarity.

Sweden finds itself in Group F alongside Tunisia, the Netherlands, and Japan. The tournament, running from June 11 to July 19, 2026, will be the first to feature 48 teams. Of note, Sweden will face the Netherlands on Midsummer’s Day in Houston, with the latter squad including veteran midfielder Martin de Roon and the fitness-questioned Memphis Depay, although Jeremie Frimpong is absent.

Potter maintains communication with key football figures such as Zlatan Ibrahimovic for guidance on the unique challenges presented by the expanded World Cup format. The team remains focused on making the most of the limited preparation time, balancing individual player situations while building towards a unified performance on the global stage.