Marco Asensio

World Cup 2026 Analysis

Marco Asensio's 2026 World Cup Prospects: A Resurgent Career with an Uphill Battle for Spain Selection

Marco Asensio is making a strong case for inclusion in Spain's 2026 FIFA World Cup squad, having rediscovered impressive form with Fenerbahçe in the 2025/2026 Süper Lig season. However, despite his club success and a personal ambition to play in his third World Cup, a return to the national team remains "difficult, but not impossible" amidst a new generation of Spanish talent.

Current Form and Club Performance:

Since joining Turkish Süper Lig club Fenerbahçe in September 2025 on a permanent transfer from Paris Saint-Germain, following a loan spell at Aston Villa, Asensio has been a pivotal player. As of late December 2025, the 29-year-old winger has scored 9 goals and provided 5 assists in 19 official matches across all competitions for Fenerbahçe, showcasing his attacking prowess and consistency. His impactful performances have not gone unnoticed, with reports indicating strong transfer interest from Spanish giants Atlético Madrid and Villarreal for the upcoming transfer window, though Fenerbahçe has firmly declared him non-transferable. Asensio himself has expressed his contentment and desire to continue his excellent form, which he believes is key to his international aspirations.

National Team Outlook:

Despite his strong club form, Asensio has not received a call-up to the Spanish national team since 2023. This comes as Spain's national team coach, Luis de la Fuente, has been building a squad that heavily features younger, dynamic wingers such as Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal, who are currently central to the team's attacking strategy. Spain qualified for the 2026 World Cup as European champions, boasting a strong squad with a blend of experienced players like Rodri and Dani Carvajal alongside emerging talents like Pedri and Gavi.

Spanish football analysts acknowledge Asensio's good form in Turkey and note that coach De la Fuente is well-acquainted with him from their time together in Spanish youth national teams. However, the competition for attacking spots is intense. Asensio is currently competing with other talented players such as Álex Baena, Yeremy Pino, and potentially Isco for a place in the squad. His best opportunity to return to "La Roja" would be to maintain his impressive goal and assist output, particularly in the UEFA Europa League, as European competition provides a more visible platform for De la Fuente and his staff. The potential expansion of the World Cup squad size could also slightly increase his chances.

Injury Status:

Marco Asensio has experienced several injuries throughout his career, including a significant cruciate ligament tear in 2019. More recently, he dealt with a thigh injury in September 2024 and a muscle injury in March 2025. However, there are no current reports indicating any injuries, allowing him to consistently perform for Fenerbahçe.

Conclusion:

Marco Asensio's prospects for the FIFA World Cup 2026 hinge on his ability to sustain his exceptional club form and continue to deliver decisive performances for Fenerbahçe. While the current direction of the Spanish national team under Luis de la Fuente favors a younger core of attacking players, Asensio's proven talent, experience in major tournaments (having played in the 2018 and 2022 World Cups), and his current resurgence could make him a compelling option for a deeper squad, especially if he can maintain his consistency and impact in European competitions. His inclusion remains an ambitious but not entirely unachievable goal.