Tunisia's World Cup journey is taking a dramatic turn as manager Sabri Lamouchi makes a bold statement with his squad selection. In a move that's sending shockwaves through North African football, the 101-cap veteran midfielder Ferjani Sassi has been left out of the 26-man roster for the 2026 tournament. Alongside him, defender Yassine Meriah, with 95 appearances for the Carthage Eagles, has also been omitted.

Lamouchi, who took the reins in January after stints at Cardiff City and Nottingham Forest, had already signaled his intentions during his first friendlies against Haiti and Canada earlier this year, leaving both players out then. Now, he's doubling down on that decision for the biggest stage of all.

But there's plenty of fresh blood to get excited about. The squad features a compelling storyline with Rani Khedira, whose brother Sami famously lifted the World Cup trophy with Germany in 2014. Khedira, who switched his national allegiance in March, brings a touch of championship pedigree to the midfield.

Premier League fans will recognize Burnley's Hannibal Mejbri and Norwich City's Anis Ben Slimane, both of whom have earned their spots. Perhaps the most intriguing call-up is 21-year-old Paris Saint-Germain forward Khalil Ayari. Though he hasn't yet broken into PSG's star-studded first team, his potential has clearly caught Lamouchi's eye.

Tunisia will open their Group F campaign against Sweden on June 15, followed by clashes with Japan and the Netherlands. With a mix of experienced stalwarts and exciting newcomers, Lamouchi is betting on a fresh approach to make waves in the tournament co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

The full squad features a blend of domestic and international talent, with players plying their trade from the French Riviera to the Bundesliga, promising an intriguing mix of styles and experience on the world's biggest stage.