Pakistani-Rooted Midfielder Zidane Iqbal Set To Feature At FIFA World Cup 2026 With Iraq
Pakistan has never appeared at a FIFA World Cup, but the 2026 edition of football’s biggest tournament will include a player with strong Pakistani heritage.
Zidane Iqbal, the Manchester-born midfielder who represents Iraq internationally, is expected to play at the FIFA World Cup 2026 after Iraq successfully secured qualification for the tournament.
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The 23-year-old footballer was born to a Pakistani father from Sahiwal, Punjab, and an Iraqi mother. Despite being eligible for multiple national teams, Iqbal chose to represent Iraq at the international level and has become an important part of the country’s national squad.
Iqbal first gained widespread attention during his time at Manchester United, where he progressed through the club’s youth ranks. In 2021, he made history by becoming the first British South Asian player to feature for Manchester United’s senior team.
Since leaving Old Trafford, the midfielder has continued his professional career in Europe while strengthening his role within the Iraqi national team setup.
For football supporters in Pakistan, Iqbal’s participation in the World Cup carries special significance. While Pakistan remains absent from the tournament, his family roots in Punjab have created a sense of connection for many fans who are expected to follow his performances closely.
