Former Manchester City forward Edin Dzeko is on course to become one of the very few players aged 40 or older to appear at a World Cup after being selected in Bosnia-Herzegovina’s squad for this summer’s competition. His inclusion places him alongside a highly exclusive group of senior internationals who have reached football’s biggest stage at an age rarely seen among outfield players.
Only Cameroon’s Roger Milla has previously played as an outfield player in the tournament after turning 40, famously featuring and scoring in 1994. In addition to Milla, six goalkeepers have achieved the same feat: Egypt’s Essam el Hadary at 45 in 2018, Colombia’s Faryd Mondragon, Northern Ireland’s Pat Jennings, England’s Peter Shilton, Italy’s Dino Zoff and Tunisia’s Ali Boumnijel.
This summer could also feature other iconic veterans, with Luka Modric, aged 40, expected to represent Croatia, while Cristiano Ronaldo, now 41, is anticipated to be involved for Portugal.
Dzeko’s role in Bosnia’s qualification
Dzeko’s call-up follows a major contribution throughout Bosnia-Herzegovina’s journey to the 2026 tournament. The experienced striker, who has earned 148 international appearances, featured in seven of the nation’s eight Group H qualification matches.
He also played in both the playoff semi-final and final as Bosnia secured their place at the finals. During the semi-final victory over Wales, Dzeko scored his 73rd goal for his country, further underlining his importance to the national side.
His continued influence has ensured Bosnia can rely on one of their most seasoned figures as they prepare for only their second appearance on the global stage.
Bosnia is the first to confirm World Cup squad
Bosnia and Herzegovina has become the first country to officially announce their 26-man selection for the 2026 World Cup, which is being staged across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Drawn in Group B, Bosnia will face Canada, Qatar, and Switzerland as they attempt to progress from the group stage. Their early squad announcement offers a clear signal of preparation ahead of the summer tournament.
The selection includes three goalkeepers, 11 defenders, 10 midfielders, and five forwards, blending established names with players from clubs across Europe.
The full squad features experience and depth
Among the goalkeepers are Nikola Vasilj, Martin Zlomislic, and Osman Hadzikic, while the defensive unit includes Sead Kolasinac, Amar Dedic, Nihad Mujakic, Nikola Katic, Tarik Muharemovic, Stjepan Radeljic, Dennis Hadzikadunic, and Nidal Celik.
Bosnia’s midfield options feature Amir Hadziahmetovic, Ivan Sunjic, Ivan Basic, Dzenis Burnic, Ermin Mahmic, Benjamin Tahirovic, Amar Memic, Armin Gigovic, Kerim Alajbegovic, and Esmir Bajraktarevic.
In attack, Dzeko is joined by Ermedin Demirovic, Jovo Lukic, Samed Bazdar, and Haris Tabakovic, giving Bosnia several options as they prepare for this summer’s challenge.