World Cup 2026: Rising Stars to Watch

The upcoming 48-team FIFA World Cup in 2026, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, presents an ideal stage for emerging football talents. This expanded tournament is anticipated to highlight a new generation of players who could become future global icons.

Several exciting talents under the age of 23 are poised to make their World Cup debuts. Among them is Brazil's Endrick, a Real Madrid striker already tipped as a future superstar, known for his pace and finishing. England's Kobbie Mainoo, a key midfielder for Manchester United, brings composure and intelligence to the pitch. Senegal's Ibrahim Mbaye and Spain's Pau Cubarsí are also emerging as significant talents in their respective defensive and attacking roles.

Further exciting prospects include England's Elliot Anderson, Argentina's Franco Mastantuono, and Spain's Gavi, who, despite injury concerns, is a pivotal player. Portugal's Joao Neves, France's Désiré Doué, and the highly anticipated Lamine Yamal of Spain, who has already impressed at a young age, round out the list of players expected to shine. Yamal, in particular, is already considered one of the world's best young players, having contributed significantly to Barcelona's success and Spain's Euro 2024 victory.