With the 2026 FIFA World Cup fast approaching, excitement is building around a fresh crop of young talents ready to make their mark on football’s biggest stage. The tournament, which will be held across Canada, Mexico, and the United States, promises to be a showcase for emerging stars poised to redefine the global game. Beyond the well-established names like Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé, a new generation of players is preparing to shine. Here’s a look at 10 breakthrough talents expected to dominate the 2026 World Cup.
Rodrigo Mora (Portugal)
At just 18 years old, Rodrigo Mora is already turning heads as an attacking midfielder for Porto. Known for his diminutive stature but exceptional technical ability, Mora excels in close control, precise passing, and visionary playmaking. His outstanding performances in the Under-17 European Championship, coupled with 10 goals and four assists in Portugal’s top league this season, signal a bright future. With Portugal close to securing World Cup qualification, Mora’s senior team debut seems imminent, making him a player to watch closely.
Nico Paz (Argentina)
Nico Paz, a 20-year-old attacking midfielder at Como, carries the promise of Argentine football’s next wave. Having made his international debut assisting none other than Lionel Messi, Paz has already earned respect from football royalty. Developed in Real Madrid’s academy and refined under Cesc Fàbregas at Como, his left-foot brilliance and superb dribbling skills have made him Serie A’s Under-23 Player of the Year. Argentina’s 2026 squad could greatly benefit from his creativity and flair.
Rayan Cherki (France)
The young French winger and attacking midfielder Rayan Cherki has recently joined Manchester City, putting him in the spotlight under Pep Guardiola’s mentorship. At 21, Cherki impresses with his ambidexterity and ability to craft goal-scoring opportunities. While questions remain about his consistency and mindset, his undeniable talent means he could be instrumental for France, one of the favorites for the World Cup crown.
Andrey Santos (Brazil)
Brazil’s midfield often dazzles with flair, but Andrey Santos offers a different profile. At 21, this Chelsea central midfielder combines aggressive ball-winning skills with a powerful shot, fitting the mold of a complete modern midfielder. Praised by Brazil’s coach Carlo Ancelotti, Santos is expected to be a vital figure for both club and country as Brazil aims to add another World Cup trophy to their collection.
Antonio Nusa (Norway)
Norwegian winger Antonio Nusa, 20, is already drawing comparisons to Kylian Mbappé for his explosive pace and skill. Playing for RB Leipzig, Nusa’s performances have contributed to Norway’s strong start in World Cup qualifiers. With Erling Haaland also in the squad, Nusa’s rise is part of a promising Norwegian contingent eager to make a mark on the global stage.
Mika Biereth (Denmark)
Described as an ‘old-school striker,’ Mika Biereth is a 22-year-old forward with a natural goal-scoring instinct. After leading Sturm Graz to an Austrian title, Biereth has maintained his scoring form at Monaco. Committed to Denmark’s national team, he aims to bring his sharp finishing and poacher’s mentality to the World Cup.
Pau Cubarsi (Spain)
While the spotlight often shines on flashy attackers, Pau Cubarsi quietly anchors Barcelona’s defense with remarkable composure and precise passing for a 22-year-old. Seen as a future captain, Cubarsi’s presence is essential for Spain’s aspirations to go deep in the tournament, bringing stability and leadership to the backline.
Francesco Camarda (Italy)
At just 17, Milan’s Francesco Camarda is already hailed as a prodigious striker. Though the 2026 World Cup might come a bit early for him to feature prominently, his prolific goal-scoring record at youth levels marks him as one of Italy’s brightest prospects. He embodies hope for a resurgence of Italian football on the world stage.
Jorrel Hato (Netherlands)
Emerging from Ajax’s renowned academy, 18-year-old Jorrel Hato is a versatile defender with maturity beyond his years. With interest from Premier League clubs growing, Hato is set to become a cornerstone of the Dutch national team, bringing both defensive solidity and composure.
Estêvão Willian (Brazil)
Nicknamed ‘Messinho’ due to his style reminiscent of Lionel Messi, Estêvão Willian is a dazzling dribbler and goal threat. His upcoming move to Chelsea will amplify attention on this Brazilian prodigy, whose creativity and technical skill make him one of the most exciting prospects in the world.
These ten players represent the exciting future of international football. As the 2026 World Cup draws near, fans worldwide should keep an eye on these young talents they could soon become the household names leading their nations to glory.
