Iraq Includes Zidane Iqbal in World Cup Squad as Manchester United Alumni Shine

Manchester United’s presence on the international stage continues to grow ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with several former academy graduates earning major tournament call-ups across different nations.

One of the standout stories comes from Iraq, who have confirmed their squad as they prepare for a long-awaited return to football’s biggest stage after decades away.

The nation secured qualification in dramatic fashion, edging Bolivia 2-1 in the intercontinental playoff final in Monterrey, becoming the 48th and final team to book their place at the tournament.

Before the World Cup begins, Iraq will step up preparations with a training camp in Girona, Spain, alongside warm-up fixtures against Andorra on May 29 and Spain on June 4.

Zidane Iqbal named in Iraq World Cup squad

Among the names included in their squad is former Manchester United midfielder Zidane Iqbal, who has been selected as part of head coach Graham Arnold’s preliminary 35-man group.

Iqbal’s inclusion adds a strong Manchester United link to Iraq’s historic campaign, with the midfielder once regarded as one of the most exciting prospects to come through the club’s academy system.

He first joined United at just nine years old and rose through the ranks before signing his first professional contract in 2021, eventually making his senior debut in a UEFA Champions League clash against Young Boys in December of the same year, becoming the first British South Asian player to feature for the club.

After leaving Old Trafford in June 2023, he completed a permanent move to FC Utrecht on a four-year deal in the Eredivisie, seeking regular first-team football.

His time in the Netherlands has been mixed, however, with limited opportunities this season and reports of disciplinary issues that saw him briefly excluded from the squad last November.

Despite that setback, he still managed 18 appearances this campaign, contributing one assist as he continued his development in European football.

For Iraq, his selection represents part of a wider push to blend experience with emerging talent as they prepare for their first World Cup appearance in 40 years, a milestone that has already captured attention across international football.

For Iqbal, it is also a chance to re-establish himself on the global stage after a turbulent spell at club level, with the World Cup offering a platform few players ever get to experience.