Gabriel Gudmundsson 'fails' as Swedish media slam Leeds star incident despite heavy win vs Tunisia

Leeds United full-back Gabriel Gudmunddson has not enjoyed the best of starts at the 2026 World Cup this summer.

Despite Sweden firing five past Tunisia in a 5-1 win on Monday, 15 June, the 27-year-old had a difficult time at the Monterrey Stadium in Mexico.

Thanks to Yasin Ayari and Alexander Isak, Sweden raced into a two-goal lead, but just before the break, Graham Potter's side were pegged back, and Gudmundsson was blamed for it.

Swedish media criticised the left-wing-back as he "fails" to mark Tunisian goalscorer Omar Rekik, allowing their opponents to gain a foothold in the game.

Of course, this wouldn't last for long, as Viktor Gyokeres, Mattias Svanberg and Ayari, once again, secured the three points in their opening game of Group F [Expressen].

Gudmundsson had already left the pitch through injury after his team's third goal, though, missing an entire 30 minutes of the six-goal thriller.

Gabriel Gudmundsson to suppress transfer interest after World Cup showing

The former Lille man has had his moments at Elland Road since arriving last summer, such as scoring an interesting own goal against Fulham back in September.

For the most part, however, he has been an incredible addition to the squad, gaining attention from all across the Premier League as a highly dependable defender.

Before his substitution, though, he had failed to create a single chance, had been dribbled past twice, won just 57 per cent of his ground duels, and committed two fouls [FotMob].

Those back in West Yorkshire will know that this was completely out of character for the flying full-back, but Leeds will be hoping that the performance has put some interested suitors off.

What has Graham Potter said about the star's injury?

Gudmundsson will, undoubtedly, get another chance to impress at this World Cup, but for now, any interested clubs could potentially be put off by his most recent display.

Speaking after the game, Potter reassured fans that it was likely "just cramp" for the Leeds man, with every expectation that he'll start against the Netherlands on Saturday 20, June.

He has yet to score or assist for his national team, but with upcoming games against the Dutch and Japan in Group F, that changing could be vital.

While he would be left heartbroken, the Whites might not be too scared of Gudmundsson and Sweden being knocked out of the tournament early. Once again, he would be taken out of the spotlight this summer.