As the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada, Mexico, and the United States continues, anticipation is building for which stars will light up the expanded tournament. Argentina enters as the defending champions, having lifted the trophy in 2022, while France, the 2018 victors, remain a formidable force. A recent analysis by GiveMeSport has identified 25 players deemed “world-class” and expected to feature prominently, based on their current form, recent major honours, standing in the 2026 Ballon d’Or race, and global reputation.
The contenders and their stars
The list features a blend of seasoned veterans and emerging talents from ten nations. Argentina’s Lionel Messi, now 38, is expected to lead the charge for the reigning champions, potentially in his final World Cup appearance. He will be joined by talents like Julian Alvarez, who has been in scintillating form for Atletico Madrid this season, contributing significantly in the Champions League:
- 9 goals
- 4 assists
France boasts the highest number of “world-class” players on the list with four, underlining their deep talent pool. As highlighted by GiveMeSport, Kylian Mbappe, who famously scored a hat-trick in the 2022 final and a goal in France’s 2018 triumph, is set to be a central figure. Adding to their firepower, Ousmane Dembele’s stock has risen dramatically, having won the Ballon d’Or in 2025.
England, still seeking their first World Cup title since 1966, will look to Jude Bellingham, whose £100 million move to Real Madrid has solidified his status as one of the game’s elite. Norway, after dominating their qualifying group with a perfect 24 points, will rely heavily on Erling Haaland, who, according to GiveMeSport, heads into the tournament with 55 goals in 50 appearances for his country.
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- 55 goals in 50 games
Morocco, who made history in 2022 as the first African and Arab nation to reach a World Cup semi-final, will feature Achraf Hakimi. The dynamic full-back enjoyed an incredible 2025, securing six trophies, including Ligue 1 and the Champions League with PSG, and repeated the Ligue 1 and Champions League success with the French giants in 2026. Brazil, whose last World Cup triumph was in 2002, will count on players like Gabriel Magalhaes, who helped Arsenal to Premier League glory. The Netherlands will be marshalled by the experienced Virgil van Dijk, 34, as they aim to finally break their record of most World Cup final appearances without winning the competition. Portugal’s contingent includes PSG teammates Vitinha and Nuno Mendes.
Notable absences and age concerns
While the list highlights many of the world’s best, it also features some notable omissions. GiveMeSport notes that Italy’s Gianluigi Donnarumma misses out due to his nation’s failure to qualify for the tournament. Other prominent names not making the cut include Cristiano Ronaldo, whose recent form saw him fail to score at Euro 2024 and manage only one goal at the 2022 World Cup. Similarly, Belgium’s Kevin De Bruyne, 34, and Romelu Lukaku, both playing for Napoli, are not on the list, despite their past achievements. Germany’s Florian Wirtz struggled in his debut season at Liverpool, while Jamal Musiala spent much of the 2025/26 season recovering from a broken left leg and dislocated ankle, affecting their inclusion. However, Germany’s Joshua Kimmich, 31, who sealed the Bundesliga title with Bayern Munich, does make the cut. Thibaut Courtois of Belgium is one of only two goalkeepers featured.
FIFA records show that the 2026 tournament will be the largest World Cup ever staged, featuring 48 teams and an expanded player pool. As the competition approaches, the blend of established legends and rising stars promises a captivating spectacle, with nations vying for football’s ultimate prize.
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