‘This Could Be My Last World Cup’: Manpreet Singh Eyes Glory

Manpreet Singh is treating the 2026 Hockey World Cup as potentially his final chance to complete one of the biggest missing pieces in his international career, with the veteran midfielder determined to help India win the title for the first time in 51 years.

The two-time Olympic medallist will play at his fourth World Cup when the tournament gets underway in Belgium and the Netherlands on August 15. India have won Olympic medals at the last two Games but have not added to their solitary World Cup triumph in 1975.

Manpreet Singh wants to end World Cup wait

For Manpreet, the significance of the tournament is heightened by the possibility that it could be his final appearance on the biggest stage in international hockey.

"This World Cup means a lot to me because it's my fourth edition. We have won back-to-back Olympic medals, but a World Cup medal is still missing. Every player dreams of having both," Manpreet said on JioStar.

"For me, this could be my last World Cup, so I am approaching it with that mindset. I am determined to achieve what we haven't yet."

India's only World Cup title came in 1975, when they defeated Pakistan 2-1 in the final in Kuala Lumpur. Five decades later, the tournament represents another opportunity for the team to end a long wait for a second title.

Manpreet believes discipline will be central to India's chances, particularly with the pressure of attempting to turn their recent Olympic success into World Cup glory.

"We need to stay emotionally balanced, stick to our roles, and play with discipline. That is what will give us the best chance to win," he said.

Manpreet Singh confident India can reach World Cup final

India enter the tournament with confidence after winning medals at the last two Olympics, but Manpreet insists the squad must now take the next step.

"The team has the experience and the talent to go all the way. We have prepared well, and the belief is high. We have won Olympic medals, and now it's time to go all the way in the World Cup," he said.

The veteran midfielder went further by backing India to reach the final.

"I am confident that we will reach the final of the World Cup. The team is playing with great belief and giving 100 per cent in every single training session," Manpreet added.

"The energy in the camp is high, and every member of the squad is determined to achieve something special. I fully believe we will make it to the final."

That confidence will be tested immediately, with India drawn in Pool D alongside Wales, England and Pakistan.

India begin World Cup campaign against Wales

India open their campaign against Wales on Saturday, before facing England and Pakistan in the remainder of the pool stage.

Manpreet warned against underestimating any opponent, pointing to lessons India have learned from previous World Cup campaigns.

"I have full faith in this team. Everyone is excited and ready for the World Cup. We have learned from past editions that you cannot take any team lightly in a tournament like this," he said.

The squad combines established players with younger members, with Manpreet, captain Harmanpreet Singh and Mandeep Singh among the senior figures expected to provide leadership.

"We have a good balance of youth and experience. Senior players like our captain Harmanpreet Singh, Mandeep Singh, and myself have shared our learnings with the younger players about what worked, what didn't, and how to approach each match with full focus," Manpreet said.

Manpreet Singh highlights India's defensive work

India have also placed particular emphasis on fitness and defensive organisation in their preparations for the tournament.

"Our coach has emphasised fitness because we know that being fit helps us compete against the best. We have also worked hard on our defence," Manpreet said.

"A solid defence gives us the confidence to attack and take control of the game."

That balance could prove important as India attempt to navigate a demanding tournament while carrying expectations generated by their recent Olympic performances.

Manpreet Singh refuses to be distracted by Pakistan rivalry

Pakistan's presence in India's group adds another layer to the pool stage, but Manpreet insists the team will not allow the identity or reputation of an opponent to dictate its approach.

"Regardless of who we play, whether it's Pakistan or any other team, we stick to our game plan. We don't get caught up in the opposition's name or reputation," he said.

For the veteran, India's route to World Cup success ultimately depends on collective discipline rather than individual brilliance.

"Hockey is a team sport, and if one player tries to do everything alone, it can hurt the team. We must trust each other and play as a unit."

With a potential final World Cup campaign ahead, Manpreet now has a clear target: help India turn their recent Olympic momentum into the country's first World Cup title since 1975.