With just over a week until Australia coach Tony Popovic names his 26-man World Cup squad, the final places are up for grabs. The squad, which will be announced on 1 June, features a mix of experienced veterans and exciting newcomers, many of whom are yet to experience a World Cup. Popovic is currently holding a training camp in Florida, where 31 players are vying for selection, with a friendly against Mexico on 30 May offering a last chance to impress.
Goalkeeper Mathew Ryan is the safest pick, having had a solid season for Levante in La Liga. He is one of only two starters from the 2022 round-of-16 defeat against Argentina likely to retain their place, alongside Middlesbrough's Riley McGree, who could win promotion to the Premier League this weekend. The squad has undergone a radical overhaul since 2022, with World Cup rookies forming the core: left-back Jordy Bos, central defender Alessandro Circati, and forwards Mohamed Touré and Nestory Irankunda are all expected to be included.
Veterans Jackson Irvine and Harry Souttar must prove their fitness after injury-hit seasons, while Connor Metcalfe is likely to be named due to his versatility. Aziz Behich, a starter in 2022, is now back in the A-League but remains a reliable deputy at left-back. Mathew Leckie, 35, has found form at the right time and could go to his fourth World Cup as a flexible forward option. Aiden O'Neill, who injured his ankle earlier this month, has joined the camp and, if fit, is expected to be named as a defensive midfielder.
Defenders Kai Trewin and Lucas Herrington have impressed in MLS and are likely inclusions after strong showings in March friendlies. Attacking trio Martin Boyle, Awer Mabil and Ajdin Hrustic appear to have done enough, while midfielder Cammy Devlin has boosted his chances with a fine season for Hearts. Jacob Italiano has become Popovic's preferred right-back after Lewis Miller's injury, and Patrick Yazbek is in a race to prove his fitness after a quad injury, with Alex Robertson and Paul Okon-Engstler potential beneficiaries.
Kye Rowles, who played every minute of Australia's 2022 campaign, is expected to be named despite a mixed season. The final squad will be trimmed from the current 31 players, with more set to join after the weekend, including Lucas Herrington and Riley McGree. Popovic's relatively recent arrival and the squad's transformation make the selection process particularly intriguing.
