Barcelona winger Roony Bardghji has been left out of Sweden’s squad for the 2026 World Cup, a decision manager Graham Potter has indicated was not based purely on sporting merit. The 20-year-old, who recently helped Barcelona secure the La Liga title, was a surprise omission from the 26-man squad announced this week, despite playing a role in Sweden’s successful World Cup qualifying campaign in March.
Bardghji’s first season at Barcelona has seen limited playing time, though his performances when given opportunities have been positively received. He featured more regularly for the club in the latter stages of the La Liga season, leading to expectations of a place in the national team setup for the summer tournament.
However, according to a report in Aftonbladet, relayed by 3cat, Potter’s decision stems from concerns about Bardghji’s behaviour during the March international camp. The report alleges the Barcelona player displayed a poor attitude at the team hotel following the qualification victory, leaving a negative impression on the coaching staff.
Potter addressed the omission in a press conference, stating that squad selection considers factors beyond on-field ability. “From a competition perspective, there are others ahead right now,” he said. “It is also about how 26 players travel together, how they manage their free time together, how they act and the different profiles according to age and experience. I love them both. They have incredibly exciting careers ahead of them.”
The news will be a disappointment for Bardghji and potentially impacts his market value this summer, as a strong World Cup showing could have increased interest from other clubs. Barcelona may have hoped for increased exposure for the player, who has been linked with a possible transfer in the upcoming window. The situation leaves Bardghji’s future at the club, and potential suitors, in a state of uncertainty.
