Some are the greatest players ever to have taken to the pitch, others you might not have heard of. Here are 10 stars to watch at the 2026 World Cup, writes Dylan Appolis.
The 2026 World Cup is set to showcase football’s biggest talents across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, bringing together the world’s elite players.
From established superstars chasing glory to young sensations eager to make their mark, this tournament’s breakout performances will forge reputations in the global game. Here’s a look at the players you need to watch.
RELEBOHILE MOFOKENG (SOUTH AFRICA)
At 21, Relebohile Mofokeng has become a regular for both Orlando Pirates and Bafana Bafana. Primarily deployed as a left-sided attacker who can drift centrally, he has built a reputation for taking on defenders and contributing goals in big matches. After breaking into the Pirates first team as a teenager, he quickly established himself in continental competition and domestic cup finals. The 2026 World Cup will be his first major global tournament and a chance to test himself against elite opposition.
LENNART KARL (GERMANY)
Teenager Lennart Karl forced his way into Bayern Munich’s senior setup during a breakthrough season in which he featured across multiple attacking roles. Primarily an attacking midfielder who can also operate from the right, he has impressed with his pressing work and final-third decision-making. Though uncapped at senior level, his inclusion in Germany’s squad under Julian Nagelsmann signals long-term intent as the team transitions to a younger core.
ESTÊVÃO (BRAZIL)
Estêvão, 19, earned his move to Chelsea after standing out in Brazil’s Série A as a direct, high-output winger with strong finishing numbers for his age. Comfortable on either flank, he combines acceleration with a willingness to shoot early. After breaking into the senior Brazil squad during World Cup qualifying, he is seen as part of the country’s next attacking generation as they pursue a sixth world title.
LAMINE YAMAL (SPAIN)
Still only 19, Lamine Yamal is already a European champion after playing a decisive role in Spain’s UEFA Euro 2024 triumph. A left-footed right winger developed at Barcelona’s La Masia academy, he became one of the youngest scorers in both La Liga and European Championship history. Comfortable in one-on-one situations and tactically disciplined, he is now a first-choice starter for Spain and expected to be central to their 2026 campaign.
CRISTIANO RONALDO (PORTUGAL)
At 41, Cristiano Ronaldo is set for what is expected to be his sixth World Cup appearance. Portugal’s all-time leading scorer and appearance-maker, he remains a central figure in the squad despite adapting his game in recent years to operate more as a penalty-box striker. A European champion in 2016 and Nations League winner in 2019, the World Cup is the only major international honour missing from his résumé.
KENDRY PÁEZ (ECUADOR)
Kendry Páez became one of Ecuador’s youngestever internationals when he debuted at 16. A central attacking midfielder comfortable between the lines, he has been trusted in competitive qualifiers and Copa América fixtures. His composure in possession and ability to dictate tempo have made him a longterm investment for Ecuador, who reached the Round of 16 in the previous World Cup cycle.
PAU CUBARSÍ (SPAIN)
Centre-back Pau Cubarsí (19) has quickly become a regular in Spain’s defensive rotation. A Barcelona graduate, he is noted for his passing range and ability to play out from the back, fitting Spain’s possession-based system. After gaining international tournament experience at youth level and the Olympics, 2026 will be his first senior World Cup.
LIONEL MESSI (ARGENTINA)
Lionel Messi enters the tournament as the reigning World Cup champion and Argentina’s most decorated player. Now 38, he remains the team’s playmaking hub, operating deeper than earlier in his career while still contributing goals and assists. With over 100 international goals and multiple Copa América titles to his name, 2026 could mark his final World Cup appearance.
FRANCO MASTANTUONO (ARGENTINA)
Franco Mastantuono made headlines with his early breakthrough at River Plate before securing a move to Real Madrid. An attacking midfielder with strong set-piece delivery and long-range shooting ability, he debuted for Argentina as a teenager. With Argentina balancing experienced leaders and emerging talent, he offers depth and attacking variety ahead of the tournament.
GILBERTO MORA (MEXICO)
Seventeen-year-old Gilberto Mora has progressed rapidly through Mexico’s youth system into senior national-team contention. An attacking midfielder who can also play wide, he is valued for his close control and passing range. With Mexico hosting the tournament, he represents the next generation expected to feature prominently as the national team looks to improve on past Round of 16 finishes.
