Kosovo’s national team captain, Amir Rrahmani, has spoken with deep pride and emotion about his nation’s growing football ambitions — the dream of qualifying for the FIFA World Cup. In a heartfelt statement to cronachedi.it, the Napoli defender reflected on how far Kosovo has come and how close the team now feels to making history.
“It would be a dream,” Rrahmani said, “but it’s also true that we’ve done very well in the Nations League in recent years. Now we can fight for second place, but also for first. That would be an extraordinary achievement for such a small country.”
The 31-year-old leader of the Dardanians emphasized that Kosovo’s football journey is not just about matches or results — it’s about representing an entire people whose passion for the game mirrors their resilience as a nation.
From Humble Beginnings to Global Aspirations
Since joining UEFA and FIFA in 2016, Kosovo’s rise in international football has been remarkable. What started as a dream of recognition has evolved into a strong, competitive national team that commands respect on the European stage.
Under Rrahmani’s leadership, Kosovo has shown great progress, both in performance and mindset. The team’s unity, spirit, and relentless drive have turned them into serious contenders in their qualifying group.
“Every player who wears this shirt dreams of taking the national team to a World Cup or a European Championship,” Rrahmani said. “We want to make an entire nation happy — a people who have suffered so much in the past. I’ve always wanted to be an ambassador for Kosovo, and I carry the flag proudly wherever I go.”
His words capture more than ambition; they echo a collective dream shared by every Kosovar fan, from the streets of Prishtina to the diaspora communities around the world.
Leadership On and Off the Pitch
Amir Rrahmani is not just a symbol of Kosovo’s sporting spirit — he’s also one of the most respected defenders in Serie A, playing a crucial role for Napoli, the reigning Italian champions. Known for his composure, intelligence, and leadership, Rrahmani has become a cornerstone for both his club and country.
Despite suffering an injury that kept him out of key World Cup qualifiers — including matches against Sweden and Slovenia — his presence continues to inspire teammates. Rrahmani returned to play with determination, eager to help Kosovo push toward its World Cup 2026 dream.
His resilience mirrors that of his homeland: a small nation with a big heart, determined to overcome every obstacle.
A Symbol of Hope for the Next Generation
Beyond his performances, Rrahmani has become a role model for young Kosovar footballers who aspire to follow his path. His journey — from the youth teams of Prishtina to captaining his national team and excelling in one of Europe’s top leagues — embodies what is possible through dedication and belief.
Kosovo’s young players see in him not only a football star but also a symbol of pride and national unity. He has often spoken about the responsibility of carrying the hopes of a nation, emphasizing that football is one of Kosovo’s strongest forms of global representation.
“Every time we step on the pitch,” he said, “we play for the people, for our families, and for the name of Kosovo. That’s what motivates us every single day.”
Looking Ahead to 2026
With the 2026 World Cup expanding to include 48 teams, the chances for emerging football nations like Kosovo have never been better. Rrahmani believes that this is the time for the Dardanians to make their mark on the global stage.
Kosovo’s performances in the UEFA Nations League and European Qualifiers have already proven their potential. Under a focused and disciplined approach, and with the leadership of their captain, the dream of reaching the World Cup in North America no longer feels out of reach.
As Rrahmani himself said, the journey is about more than football — it’s about showing the world what Kosovo stands for: resilience, pride, and the belief that even small nations can achieve great things.
Amir Rrahmani’s vision for Kosovo is not just a sporting goal — it’s a national mission. With a united team, passionate fans, and growing international respect, Kosovo’s football story is becoming one of hope and perseverance.