Gregor Kobel

World Cup 2026 Analysis

Gregor Kobel is poised to be a key figure for Switzerland at the FIFA World Cup 2026, solidifying his position as the national team's starting goalkeeper. His consistent high-level performances for Borussia Dortmund, coupled with the retirement of long-standing number one Yann Sommer from international football, have paved the way for Kobel to command the Swiss goal.

Analysis of Prospects for FIFA World Cup 2026:

Kobel's prospects for the 2026 World Cup are very strong. Having been part of Switzerland's recent major tournament squads and now stepping into the primary goalkeeper role, he brings experience from the highest levels of club football. Switzerland has already secured its qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, winning UEFA Group B unbeaten.

• Established Starter: Following Yann Sommer's retirement from the national team after Euro 2024, Kobel has become Switzerland's first-choice goalkeeper. He featured in Switzerland's World Cup 2026 qualifying squads in both September and November 2025.
• Club Form and Experience: As Borussia Dortmund's goalkeeper, Kobel has regularly competed in the Bundesliga and the UEFA Champions League. He was instrumental in Dortmund reaching the 2024 Champions League final and was subsequently named in the competition's Team of the Season. While some reports noted "decreased stats" in the 2024/2025 season, he remains a pivotal player for his club. His passing accuracy for the 2025/2026 Bundesliga season stands at 76.0%, and in the Champions League, it's 59.4%.
• Competition: While Gregor Kobel is currently the primary goalkeeper, other notable goalkeepers included in recent Switzerland squads are Yvon Mvogo (Lorient) and Marvin Keller (Young Boys), with Pascal Loretz (FC Luzern) also mentioned in a September 2025 update. However, Kobel's established role at a top European club and his recent performances suggest he is firmly in contention for the starting spot.
• Key Player for Switzerland: Kobel is considered one of Switzerland's key players heading into the 2026 World Cup.

Latest News:

As of late 2025 and early 2026, Gregor Kobel continues to be a central figure for Borussia Dortmund and the Swiss national team.

• He signed a long-term deal with Borussia Dortmund in October 2023, valid until June 2028, and has expressed his commitment to staying at the club for the 2025/2026 season despite previous transfer speculation.
• He participated in FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier matches for Switzerland, including a game against Sweden in November 2025.
• Switzerland has successfully qualified for their sixth consecutive World Cup appearance, and Kobel is expected to lead their defensive efforts in the tournament, which will be held in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.