2022 World Cup: FIFA approves 26-man squad

World football governing body, FIFA has approved 26-man squads for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

This increases the maximum squad size by three for all nations ahead of the November 21-December 18 tournaments.

According to the football body, the decision was made because of the unusual timing of the competition.

FIFA stated, “Given the need to retain additional flexibility due to the unique timing of the FIFA World Cup 2022 in the global calendar, as well as the broader context of the disruptive effects caused by the Covid-19 pandemic on squads before and during tournaments, the Bureau has decided the following:

“The maximum number of players on the release list has been increased from 35 to 55.

“The number of players to be included on the final list has been increased to at least 23 and a maximum of 26.

“The final matchday at club level for the 23 to 26 players nominated on the final list will be 13 November 2022.

“No more than 26 people (up to 15 substitutes and 11 team officials

“one of these officials must be the team doctor) will be allowed to sit on the team bench.”