Rangnick Names Austria Squad with Alaba, Arnautovic and 14 Bundesliga Players

Ralf Rangnick has announced Austria’s 26‑man squad for the 2026 World Cup, which will be staged in the United States, Mexico and Canada. The roster features 14 players who compete in Germany’s Bundesliga, including the Borussia Dortmund duo, as well as captain David Alaba and striker Marko Arnautovic. The selection reflects a heavy Bundesliga presence, underscoring the league’s role as a talent pool for the Austrian national team. Players from clubs across Europe have also been called up, creating a balanced mix of experience and youth. Veteran defender David Alaba, a mainstay at Bayern Munich, is among the selected players, providing leadership at the back. His inclusion adds further quality to a defence that will face strong opposition in the tournament. Forward Marko Arnautovic, who plies his trade with Inter Milan, secures a place in the attacking line‑up. Arnautovic’s physical presence and goal‑scoring record are expected to bolster Austria’s offensive options. The Borussia Dortmund duo joins the squad, highlighting the German club’s contribution to the national side. Their familiarity with each other and with the Bundesliga’s high tempo could prove valuable in the World Cup group stage. The 2026 tournament will be the first World Cup jointly hosted by three North American nations, offering a unique logistical challenge for all participants. Austria will look to build on recent performances and aim for a deep run in the competition. Rangnick’s next steps include a series of preparatory friendlies to fine‑tune tactics and cohesion. The coaching staff will assess the squad’s readiness as the tournament approaches later in the year.