Issa Al-Aidouni has reaffirmed his ambition to represent Tunisia at the 2026 World Cup, revealing ongoing communication with head coach Sabri Lamouchi as the national team intensifies preparations for the tournament.
With the finals set to be hosted across United States, Mexico and Canada, competition for places in Tunisia’s squad is increasing. Al-Aidouni, currently playing for Al-Wakrah, is seeking a return to the national team after a period of absence caused by injury.
Determined to Return
The midfielder has missed several recent international commitments, including the latest national team camp which featured matches against Haiti national football team and Canada national football team. Tunisia secured a win in one match and a draw in the other, but Al-Aidouni was not involved.
His absence extends further back, having also missed major competitions such as the Africa Cup of Nations and the Arab Cup due to injury setbacks. Despite this, he remains focused on regaining his place in the squad.
“Of course, this is the World Cup, and every player dreams of participating in it. God willing, God’s will, we will see what happens and what God has written for me, and thank God this is the most important thing.”
Ongoing Communication with Coaching Staff
Al-Aidouni confirmed that he has maintained contact with the national team’s technical staff, including Lamouchi, as both sides assess the next phase of preparations.
“Yes, I am in contact with the national team coach, and he came here, and I think he also stated that, and we will see what will happen in the next period.”
This dialogue suggests that the midfielder remains under consideration, even as competition for selection intensifies ahead of the tournament.
Facing a Challenging Group
Tunisia’s task at the World Cup is expected to be demanding, with the team drawn alongside strong opponents including the Netherlands national football team, Japan national football team and Sweden national football team.
Al-Aidouni acknowledged the difficulty of the group but expressed confidence in Tunisia’s ability to compete.
“I think it is a difficult group that includes three strong teams, but I believe in our abilities. We must go there and give our all in order to achieve our goal, and that is the most important thing.”
He also stressed the importance of focusing on internal performance rather than external threats.
“We don’t need to focus too much on our rivals (Netherlands, Japan and Sweden), but we should focus on ourselves and give everything on the pitch.”
Belief in Possibility
Despite the challenges, Al-Aidouni struck an optimistic tone, highlighting the unpredictable nature of tournament football.
“As I said, they are strong teams and the group is not easy, but we believe that one match can change everything. And when you believe in yourself and give your all, God willing, everything becomes possible.”
Selection Decision Looms
With just weeks remaining before the World Cup, Al-Aidouni’s situation reflects both opportunity and uncertainty. His determination to return, combined with ongoing communication with the coaching staff, keeps his hopes alive.
However, the final decision rests with Lamouchi, who must balance form, fitness and squad competition in assembling a team capable of navigating a difficult group.
For Al-Aidouni, the coming period represents a crucial window to prove his readiness and secure a place on football’s biggest stage.
