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Bosnia Mix Experience and Youth with Dzeko and Mahmic Named in World ...
Barbarez mixed veterans and newcomers, with Edin Dzeko leading a squad that includes 18-year-old winger Kerim Alajbegovic and newly eligible Ermin Mahmic.
On Monday, Bosnia manager Sergej Barbarez announced his FIFA World Cup squad, blending veteran leadership with emerging talent. Striker Edin Dzeko leads the roster, with uncapped midfielder Ermin Mahmic also included.
Veteran striker Dzeko, 40, returns as one of two survivors from Bosnia's only previous World Cup appearance in 2014. Defender Sead Kolasinac joins him as the other remaining player from that squad.
Barbarez called up 21-year-old midfielder Mahmic after FIFA approved his allegiance switch from Austria. "You can't believe how happy and proud he is to be with us," Barbarez told reporters.
Kerim Alajbegovic, an 18-year-old winger, joins as the squad's youngest player, having already demonstrated the skill and temperament required for the big stage.
Bosnia will face co-host Canada, Qatar, and Switzerland in Group B, beginning its World Cup campaign on June 12 in Toronto. Warm-up matches against North Macedonia and Panama precede the tournament.
Bosnia and Herzegovina becomes the first selection to confirm its 26 calls for the 2026 World Cup. Under the leadership of Sergej Barbarez and the leadership of the experienced Edin Džeko, the European team is preparing to debut on 12 June against Canada in Group B.