FC Groningen has a rich history of players who shine on the world stage. With the start of the World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, thirteen players with a past at FC Groningen are active. Among them is captain Virgil van Dijk, who played 66 official matches for the club between 2011 and 2013. This is his third tournament, following previous absences due to injuries and failed qualifications.

Van Dijk is a crucial player for the Netherlands national team, but other former Groningen players are also making an impression. Curaçao, making its World Cup debut, has three players who have played for FC Groningen, including captain Leandro Bacuna and his brother Juninho Bacuna. Together, they have played nearly three hundred matches for the club.

Additionally, there are Scandinavian players representing FC Groningen's past. Hjalmar Ekdal and Gabriel Gudmundsson have been selected for Sweden, while Norway features Jørgen Strand Larsen and Alexander Sørloth. Strand Larsen made his breakthrough at FC Groningen, while Sørloth currently plays for Atlético Madrid.

Japan, which faces the Netherlands in the group stage, also has two former FC Groningen players: Ritsu Doan and Ko Itakura. Both players have played together and have made their mark in international football.

With these thirteen players, FC Groningen leaves its mark on the World Cup, and fans are eagerly watching their performances on the world stage.