Teams pick World Cup players through the national team’s coaching staff, not by voting or random selection. The coach usually builds a shortlist based on eligibility, club form, fitness, tactical fit, and how the player works within the squad.

How selection works

A player first has to be eligible for that country under FIFA rules, usually through birth, a parent or grandparent, or citizenship/nationality rules.

After that, coaches and scouts watch players across club matches and international camps, looking at things like:

  • Current form.
  • Fitness and injuries.
  • Position needs.
  • Tactical fit.
  • Experience and leadership.

Squad process

Most countries announce a larger provisional squad first, then trim it down before the tournament starts.

For recent World Cups, squads have been up to 26 players, and the final list is submitted before kickoff. FIFA also requires squad balance, including at least three goalkeepers in the final roster.

Simple example

If a country needs a fast winger, a coach may choose the player who is in better current form and fits the team’s style, even if another player is more famous. In other words, it’s about who helps the team most right now , not just who has the biggest name.

TL;DR

World Cup players are chosen by each country’s coach and staff based on eligibility, performance, fitness, and tactical needs, then narrowed from a provisional squad to the final tournament roster.