Young Saudi Players Eyed for 2034 World Cup Pool

Saudi Arabia's path to the 2034 FIFA World Cup is already taking shape, with players who will be between 7 and 25 years old in 2026 seen as a possible development pool for the tournament the Kingdom will host. This is a possibility rather than a confirmed squad, as no official 2034 player list has been announced.

The idea rests on the country's growing football pipeline. The Saudi Arabian Football Federation runs national teams from under-14 through under-21, alongside the senior side, giving young talent a structured route toward the top level over the coming years.

Youth development has expanded significantly. More than 200,000 players take part in the Schools League, while a scouting program spanning over 100 schools and 170 coaches works to identify emerging talent. Plans are also in place for more than 25 regional training centers across the country.

The Mahd Sports Academy targets boys and girls aged 6 to 18, and the Future Falcons program has already included players born in 2009 and 2010, as well as the under-16 national team, in preparation for 2034.

Why it matters

For families across Riyadh, Jeddah and beyond, these programs point to wider opportunities for young athletes to train and compete at a high standard. No official 2034 squad, selection guarantee, fees, or application process has been announced, and no costs apply to the development pathway described here.

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