Leroy Sané

World Cup 2026 Analysis

Leroy Sané's prospects for the FIFA World Cup 2026 are shaped by his recent move to Galatasaray, his recovery from injury, and his ongoing integration into the German national team under Julian Nagelsmann.

Latest News and Current Form:

Sané recently transferred to Süper Lig club Galatasaray in the summer of 2025, ending a five-year stint with Bayern Munich. He is currently contractually tied to Bayern until the end of June 2025 and is set to play for them in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup before officially joining Galatasaray on July 1, 2025.

After undergoing groin surgery following Germany's exit from the European Championship in the summer of 2024, Sané made his return to team training in August 2024. Despite missing the start of the Bundesliga season, he was recalled to the German national squad in November 2024 for World Cup qualifiers against Bosnia and Herzegovina and Hungary. National coach Julian Nagelsmann noted Sané's strong performances in the Champions League and the Süper Lig as the reason for his recall, despite earlier expressing some doubts after Sané's move to a "worse league".

Sané has been actively involved in Germany's 2026 World Cup qualifiers, contributing with assists in recent matches, including a narrow win over Luxembourg in November 2025. He has also been praised by Nagelsmann for his performance and ability to create chances. For Galatasaray in the 2025/2026 season, he has participated in Süper Lig, Champions League, and Turkish Cup matches.

Analysis of FIFA World Cup 2026 Prospects:

• Injury Management: Sané has a history of injuries, including a significant ACL injury in 2019 and recurring groin issues that required surgery in 2024. His ability to maintain fitness and avoid further significant setbacks will be crucial for his 2026 World Cup aspirations. Regular playing time and effective injury management at Galatasaray will be key.
• Club Environment and Performance: While Nagelsmann initially expressed reservations about Sané's move to the Süper Lig, Sané's subsequent performances in both the Champions League and the Turkish league have seemingly reaffirmed his place in the national squad. Continuing to perform at a high level with Galatasaray, especially in European competitions, will be essential to stay in contention for the national team.
• Competition for Places: The German national team has a strong pool of attacking talent. Players like Jamal Musiala, and potentially emerging talents like Said El Mala, who recently received a senior call-up, will provide significant competition for winger and attacking midfield roles. Sané's ability to consistently deliver impactful performances, utilizing his speed and dribbling skills, will be vital to secure a starting spot or a regular role in the squad.
• Role in the National Team: Sané's style of play, characterized by his ability to excel in one-on-one situations and break down deep defensive blocks, offers a valuable option for Germany. If he can maintain consistency and form, he is likely to be a significant asset for Germany in 2026, especially if he can build on his recent positive contributions in qualifiers. He has expressed strong motivation to be successful with the national team.

At 29 years old (as of December 2025), Sané is in his prime footballing years. His recent return to the national team following surgery and his positive contributions in qualifiers suggest he is firmly in Nagelsmann's plans for the 2026 World Cup, provided he remains fit and performs consistently at his new club.