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Potter had to make some tough decisions ahead of this summer’s tournament, but he managed to land two of last summer’s marquee Premier League signings.
Liverpool forward Aleksandar Isak and Arsenal striker Geokeres are expected to play key roles if Sweden can progress, with matches against Tunisia, the Netherlands and Japan in Group F.
“I think they’re different in their style, which is good for us because you can hopefully use them effectively,” Potter said.
“The honest truth is that in my time we haven’t played them together, so it will be exciting to develop. If we can enjoy their football and shoot, they are top players.”
Issac is yet to start a match under Potter in an injury-hit season following his record £125m move from Newcastle to Liverpool last summer.
“It may take a while,” added Potter. “At the biggest clubs there are pressures and expectations and when expectations and reality start to diverge, it can create problems.
“His injury is disappointing, but I know him well. He is a top professional who wants to play and help his team.”
Gyokeres, meanwhile, scored 21 goals as he won the Premier League title and reached the Champions League final in his first season since joining Arsenal from Sporting for £55m.
However, the former Coventry City forward, 27, still faces criticism.
“It’s a good example of the modern game,” Potter said. “From our point of view, he scored four goals in two games and helped take us to the World Cup, so his impact is significant.”
He also recalls how Isak scored on his professional debut against Ostersunds at the age of 16 while playing for AIK.
As one of the last countries to qualify, Sweden kept the one remaining training base among the 48 teams – the SDJA, a high school facility in San Diego.
Potter said he had no complaints about the facilities, highlighting the increased importance of set-pieces in the heat and described squad selection as involving “the most difficult conversation as a father and as a human being”.
Unlike England, who will base themselves in Miami ahead of the tournament, Sweden will be at home in Stockholm so the players can spend time with family and friends to recharge after a long club season.
After friendlies against Norway and Greece, Sweden look forward to returning to the world’s biggest stage against Tunisia on June 15.
“My first football memory is from 1986 – I was 11 watching Diego Maradona,” reflected Potter. “That’s when I realized how special the game is. It’s a dream to work in that environment.”
