Tunisian midfielder Hannibal Mejbri is gearing up for the 2026 World Cup, where Tunisia will face Sweden, Japan, and the Netherlands in Group F. Mejbri, confident in his team’s abilities, stated, “Myself and Tunisia, we don’t fear anyone.” The tournament kicks off for Tunisia on June 14, 2026, at the Estadio Monterrey in Mexico.
Mejbri’s Fearless Mindset
Mejbri attributes his fearlessness to his upbringing in Paris. Growing up in a diverse neighborhood, he learned to face challenges head-on. He remarked that respect is earned through fearlessness. “I grew up playing football below my housing block,” he recalled. Constant competition made him resilient and determined.
From Paris to Professional Football
Born to Tunisian immigrants in the 20th arrondissement of Paris, Mejbri was surrounded by a rich cultural tapestry. The area was home to many North African communities. Football served as a unifying language. At age six, he joined Paris FC’s academy and spent several years there.
- Joined Monaco youth academy in 2018 at age 15.
- Signed by Manchester United in 2019.
- Premier League debut in May 2021.
- Scored first top-flight goal in September 2023.
Club Journey and Performance
Despite the promising start at Manchester United, Mejbri faced instability. He had loan spells at Birmingham City and Sevilla before permanently joining Burnley in August 2024. Throughout the 2025-26 season, he was known for his combative style, earning 10 yellow cards—only four players received more.
Commitment to Tunisian Football
Mejbri is not just a player; he is a vocal advocate for reform in Tunisian football. Following Tunisia’s exit from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, he criticized the management of the sport. “We are lagging in so many areas,” he stated. He emphasized the need for a fresh approach to elevate Tunisian football.
World Cup Aspirations
Tunisia’s last World Cup experience in 2022 was bittersweet. They secured a historic win against France but exited in the group stage. Reflecting on that experience, Mejbri acknowledged the need for improvement. He believes that the current squad’s new experiences can lead to a better outcome.
Looking ahead
As Tunisia prepares for the World Cup, Mejbri will play a crucial role. Operating as a creative midfielder, he aims to bring his fight and skill to the field. He remains focused on his team’s journey, stating, “We are Tunisia, and I don’t look at anyone else.” Mejbri’s determination and fearlessness will be pivotal as Tunisia seeks to upset the odds in their World Cup campaign.
