Barcelona Veteran at Risk of Losing His Starting Berth with National Team for FIFA World Cup 2026

Sergi Roberto Faces Uncertain Future in Spain's Line-Up

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, significant shifts are unfolding within national teams across the globe. One of the focal points of discussion is the potential exclusion of FC Barcelona's seasoned utility man, Sergi Roberto, from Spain’s starting XI. The 32-year-old has been a loyal servant to both club and country, known for his versatility in defense and midfield. However, with emerging talents making their mark and a drop in Roberto's playing minutes at Barcelona, the Spanish coaching staff may be leaning, for the first time in years, toward change.

Emerging Competition for Sergi Roberto

A new generation of Spanish stars is rising through the ranks, presenting a serious challenge to Roberto’s position:

• Dani Carvajal: Real Madrid’s right-back continues to provide consistency and top-level experience.
• Pedro Porro: The Sporting CP defender has been impressive with dynamic forward runs and defensive solidity.
• Arnau Martínez: A promising talent from Girona, known for his versatility—similarly to Roberto in his early days.

Spain's head coach, Luis de la Fuente, has publicly emphasized the importance of form and fitness over reputation. This approach suggests that even long-standing figures such as Roberto are no longer guaranteed a place in the squad, let alone the starting line-up.

Barcelona Minutes Declining

At club level, Roberto's role under Xavi Hernández has evolved more toward leadership and mentorship rather than regular starts:

• Only started nine La Liga matches in the 2023/24 season.
• Primarily used as a rotational player or substitute.
• Competing with younger options like Sergiño Dest and Jules Koundé in similar roles.

This lack of consistent match sharpness could prove detrimental to his World Cup hopes.

What This Means Ahead of World Cup 2026

Unless a significant turnaround occurs—such as an injury crisis or a sudden return to top form—Sergi Roberto’s chances of starting for Spain in the 2026 World Cup appear limited. While his leadership and experience remain invaluable, the Spanish national setup is clearly moving toward integrating fresher, more physically dynamic players.

Conclusion

Sergi Roberto's journey with Spain may not be over, but his reign as a starter looks to be under threat. With competition intensifying and his role at Barcelona diminishing, the veteran faces one of the biggest challenges of his career. The road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be a testament to his resilience and adaptability.