FIFA World Cup: 10 youth to watch
Several emerging young talents are poised to shine at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, with teenagers like Lamine Yamal (Spain), Endrick (Brazil), and Estêvão (Brazil) expected to lead the new generation of stars. Other key breakthrough prospects include Kenan Yıldız (Turkey), Arda Güler (Turkey), and Franco Mastantuono (Argentina), who are likely to make major impacts.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to start on Thursday, June 11, 2026. The opening match will be held at the historic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, featuring co-host Mexico against South Africa.
Key Tournament Information of the 2026 FIFA World Cup
- Duration: June 11 to July 19, 2026 (39 days total).
- Host Nations: United States, Canada, and Mexico.
- Expanded Format: For the first time, the tournament will feature 48 teams (up from 32) and 104 matches.
- Final Match: Sunday, July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
- Host Cities: Matches will be played across 16 cities, including 11 in the U.S., 3 in Mexico, and 2 in Canada.
Important Dates by Round
| Round | Dates |
|---|---|
| Group Stage | June 11 – June 27 |
| Round of 32 | June 28 – July 3 |
| Round of 16 | July 4 – July 7 |
| Quarter-finals | July 9 – July 11 |
| Semi-finals | July 14 – July 15 |
| Final | July 19 |
The final 23–26 player squads for the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be finalized between May 25 and June 1, 2026. Preliminary lists (35–55 players) are due on May 11, 2026, and the final qualifiers will officially determine all 48 team spots on March 31, 2026
We are going to discuss about 10 Youth Players who can shine in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
1. Lamine Yamal–Player to Watch in FIFA World Cup 2026
Lamine Yamal is widely considered one of the top players to watch for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Given his current trajectory, his chances of “shining” are incredibly high for several reasons:
- Established Star Power: By the time the 2026 World Cup begins in June, Yamal will still only be 18 years old, yet he is already a guaranteed starter for both FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team.
- The Number 10 Role: He has recently taken over the No. 10 shirt for Spain, signaling that the team’s creative engine is built around him.
- Incredible Stats: His ability to consistently provide assists and score crucial goals (like his famous strike against France) makes him a dual threat that defenders struggle to contain.
FIFA and global football analysts currently rank him as a frontrunner for the Best Young Player award at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and many see him as a potential Golden Ball contender if Spain goes far.
Lamine Yamal has achieved historic success with the Spanish national team, becoming their youngest-ever player and goalscorer at 16 years and 57 days. He played a pivotal role in winning the UEFA Euro 2024, earning the Young Player of the Tournament award, and has consistently contributed to victories, scoring six goals in his first 23 appearances.
Key National Team Achievements & Records
- UEFA Euro 2024 Winner: Played a crucial role in Spain’s championship run, earning Young Player of the Tournament
- Youngest Ever Player & Scorer: Set records as the youngest player to appear and score for Spain
- Record-Breaking Scorer: Scored his first goal on September 8, 2023, in a Euro qualifier against Georgia.
- 2024-25 Performance: Continued to break records, including becoming the youngest to score a brace for Spain in June 2025.
- Consistency: He has established himself as a key member of the team, with six goals and multiple assists, contributing to Euro success and World Cup qualification.
- Major Individual Honors with National Team
- UEFA Euro 2024 Young Player of the Tournament: Recognized as the best young talent.
- UEFA Euro 2024 Goal of the Tournament: Awarded for his strike against France.
Yamal is recognized as one of the most exciting talents in world football, drawing comparisons to legends like Lionel Messi due to his rapid ascent. All of his successes suggest that Yamal is a frontrunner for the Golden Boot in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
2. Endrick (Brazil, 19-20)–Real Madrid star waiting for a breakthrough in the FIFA World Cup 2026
Real Madrid striker Endrick is expected to lead the line for Brazil in the FIFA World Cup 2026. Endrick has a very strong chance of becoming a breakout star at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. While Lamine Yamal is already a focal point for Spain, Endrick’s path to stardom in 2026 is built on his role as Brazil’s long-awaited “Number 9.”
Here is why he is expected to shine in the FIFA World Cup 2026
- Impactful Form: After a period of limited minutes at Real Madrid, his recent loan spell at Lyon proved vital. He regained his confidence and scoring touch, contributing 3 goals and 5 assists in 11 matches, which secured his spot back in the Brazil national squad.
- Big-Game Player: He has already shown he can score against world-class opposition. He holds the record as the youngest player since Pelé to score three goals for Brazil, having found the net against giants like England and Spain.
- The Main Striker: Brazil has struggled to find a consistent clinical finisher in recent years. Under coach Carlo Ancelotti, Endrick is being groomed to lead the line alongside Vinícius Júnior and Raphinha, recently taking over the iconic No. 9 jersey.
- Physicality and Instinct: Unlike many young flair players, Endrick possesses immense physical strength and a “killer instinct” in the box, making him a nightmare for defenders in tournament football.
While he faces competition for the starting spot from players like Matheus Cunha and João Pedro, his ability to change a game as a substitute—as seen in his recent assist against Croatia—makes him a weapon Brazil will likely rely on heavily.
3. Pau Cubarsí (Spain, 19)–Defender expected to shine in FIFA World Cup 2026
Pau Cubarsí is an elite young footballer from Spain who plays as a center-back for FC Barcelona and the Spanish national team. Born on January 22, 2007, he is widely regarded as one of the most talented defensive prospects in world football. He is likely to shine at the FIFA World Cup 2026.
In 2025, Pau Cubarsí solidified his place as a premier defender for FC Barcelona and the Spain national team, marked by a major contract renewal and key domestic titles. Having turned 18 in January 2025, he signed a long-term extension keeping him at the club until June 2029 with a €500 million buyout clause.
Cubarsí was a central figure in manager Hansi Flick’s tactical setup, known for his elite ball distribution and high-line defensive intelligence.
He played a pivotal role in Spain’s defense during the 2024 Paris Olympics, winning the gold medal after defeating France in the final
Record Breaker: In March 2024, he became the youngest defender to ever play for Spain’s senior team at 17 years and 60 days, surpassing the record previously held by Sergio Ramos.
Key National Team Stats (Senior Level)
As of April 16, 2026
| Competition | Appearances | Minutes Played | Passing Accuracy | Clean Sheets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| World Cup Qualifiers | 4 | 315 | 97% | 3 |
| UEFA Nations League | 3 | 139 | 92% | — |
| International Friendlies | 4 | 224 | 98% | — |
Tactical Role under Luis de la Fuente
Manager Luis de la Fuente has praised Cubarsí for his “exceptional maturity and tactical intelligence,” often deploying him as a ball-playing center-back. His ability to complete high-risk passes—boasting an average 97% completion rate in recent matches—may be critical to Spain’s journey in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
4. Gilberto Mora (Mexico/Tijuana, 17) – Star to watch from the Caribbean in FIFA World Cup 2026
Gilberto Mora, a 17-year-old Club Tijuana attacking midfielder, is a top breakout prospect for the 2026 World Cup after a meteoric rise with Mexico’s “El Tri”. Known as the “Mexican Pedri,” Mora is a creative playmaker praised for his vision, dribbling, and ability to break down defenses, expected to be a key figure at the 2026 tournament.
Key Details on Gilberto Mora (As of April 2026):
- Background: Made history as the youngest player to feature and win a senior international tournament (2025 Gold Cup) at 16.
- Playstyle: A modern, low-center-of-gravity attacking midfielder/winger who can operate in tight spaces, noted for tactical maturity
- 2026 Prospect: Highlighted by FIFA as a star to watch, with expectations of leading Mexico’s offense at a home World Cup.
- Status: Represented by Rafaela Pimenta, he is heavily linked with a move to a top European club after the tournament.
- Current Situation: Despite a minor setback with pubalgia (sports hernia) in early 2026, he is expected to be a major part of Javier Aguirre’s plans.
5. Estevão Willian (Brazil/Chelsea)
Estêvão Willian is an 18-year-old Brazilian professional footballer who plays as a winger for Premier League club Chelsea and the Brazil national team. He is widely regarded as one of the most exciting young talents in world football due to his incredible dribbling and pace.
Key Facts & Career Highlights
- Born: April 24, 2007, in Franca, Brazil.
- Nickname: He is often called “Messinho” (Little Messi) due to his playing style similarities to Lionel Messi.
- Club Career:
- He rose to fame at Palmeiras in Brazil, where he broke several records during the 2024 season, scoring 13 goals and providing 8 assists in 31 appearances.
- In August 2025, he officially joined Chelsea. He made his debut for the club against Crystal Palace on August 17, 2025.
- International: He made his senior debut for Brazil in 2024 and has been a regular part of their 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign.
- Achievements: He recently became the third youngest player to score in his first three Champions League appearances, joining Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland.
2025–26 Season Stats (for Chelsea)
| Competition | Apps | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Premier League | 21 | 2 | 2 |
| UEFA Champions League | 7 | 3 | 0 |
| EFL Cup | 4 | 1 | 0 |
| FA Cup | 3 | 2 | 1 |
5. Arda Güler (Turkey/Real Madrid): A creative playmaker
Arda Güler (born February 25, 2005) is a highly skilled Turkish attacking midfielder and winger currently playing for Real Madrid in La Liga and the Turkey national team. Known for his exceptional vision, close ball control, and creative playmaking, he has established himself as one of the world’s premier young talents to watch in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
2025–26 Season Performance
In the current 2025–26 season, Güler has taken on a more prominent role at Real Madrid under head coach Alvaro Arbeloa, frequently appearing in the starting lineup.
Club Impact: He has been a primary creative engine, leading several competitions in terms of chances created. Historic Goal: On March 14, 2026, he set a record for the longest goal in La Liga history by scoring from 68 meters out against Elche.
Champions League: He scored twice in a quarter-final thriller against Bayern Munich on April 15, 2026, including the competition’s fastest-ever goal at 34 seconds. All of these experiences may be useful for him in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
6. Antonio Nusa (Norway/RB Leipzig)
Antonio Nusa is a 20-year-old Norwegian professional footballer who plays as a winger for RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga and the Norway national team. Often compared to Neymar for his elite dribbling skills, he is considered one of Europe’s top young talents.
Current Season Stats (2025/26)
As of mid-April 2026, he has become a regular fixture in the Leipzig attack:
| Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bundesliga | 26 | 3 | 3 |
| DFB-Pokal | 4 | 1 | 1 |
| Norway (National) | 6 | 2 | 1 |
Key Career Updates
- RB Leipzig Breakthrough: Since joining from Club Brugge, Nusa has established himself as a creative force, known for his ability to beat defenders in 1-on-1 situations.
- Transfer Interest: His performances have sparked interest from major clubs. AC Milan has reportedly identified him as a potential long-term replacement for Rafael Leão, and Premier League clubs like Arsenal remain attentive to his development.
- International Role: He is a key partner to Erling Haaland in the Norwegian national team, playing a vital role in their efforts to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup
7. Florian Wirtz (Germany)–Versatile midfielder waiting for the FIFA World Cup
As of April 2026, Florian Wirtz is established as a central figure and primary playmaker for Germany’s national team heading into the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Following a high-profile move to Liverpool, Wirtz has been in stellar form for his country, with Julian Nagelsmann building the attack around his vision, dribbling, and scoring ability.
Key Details on Wirtz Leading Up to FIFA World Cup 2026:
- Form & Impact: Wirtz has been described as a “midfield maestro” with outstanding technical ability, acting as the primary creative force for Germany.
- Performances: In March 2026, he delivered a masterclass performance in a 4-3 friendly win against Switzerland, contributing two goals and two assists.
- Role: He operates mainly as an attacking midfielder (No. 10) or inverted winger, often rotating to find space and dictate the tempo.
- Expectations: He is viewed as the “unsung hero” and key to Germany’s chances, with the team aiming for the title despite being ranked outside the top favorites.
8. Kobbie Mainoo (England)–Promising young player expected to shine in the FIFA World Cup
Kobbie Mainoo is a standout midfielder for Manchester United and the England national team, widely regarded as one of the most promising young talents in world football.
Current Status (as of April 2026)
- Club: He remains a vital part of Manchester United’s midfield. Under the management of Michael Carrick, he has continued his development as a regular starter.
- England: He is a key figure in Thomas Tuchel’s England squad. Most recently, he featured in the March 2026 friendlies against Uruguay and Japan as part of the buildup to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- Injury Update: As of mid-April 2026, he is recovering from a minor injury that sidelined him for a recent Premier League clash against Leeds United, but he is expected to return to action shortly.
2025–26 Season Statistics (Club & Country)
| Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premier League (Man Utd) | 22 | 0 | 2 | 1,122 |
| EFL Cup (Man Utd) | 1 | 0 | 1 | 90 |
| International Friendlies (England) | 2 | 0 | 0 | 92 |
| Total | 25 | 0 | 3 | 1,304 |
Key Highlights & Achievements
- Breakthrough: Became a household name during the 2023–24 season, scoring in the FA Cup Final victory against Manchester City.
- International Impact: Established himself in the England starting XI during Euro 2024, helping the team reach the final.
- Expected to be on fire in the FIFA World Cup 2026.
9. Kendry Páez (Ecuador)–A star from a South American dark horse is ready for the FIFA World Cup 2026
Kendry Páez is an exceptional Ecuadorian talent currently playing as an attacking midfielder for Argentine giants River Plate, on loan from Chelsea.
Current Status (as of April 2026)
- Club: After officially becoming a Chelsea player upon turning 18 in May 2025, he spent the first half of the season at Strasbourg in France. In January 2026, he moved to River Plate on a one-year loan to gain consistent playing time in a highly competitive environment.
- International: He is a cornerstone of the Ecuador national team. He recently featured in their March 2026 friendlies and is expected to be a primary creative force for Ecuador in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
- Role: Known for his incredible vision and dribbling, he primarily operates as a number 10 or a right winger, often compared to a young James Rodríguez or Lionel Messi for his left-footed playstyle.
2025–26 Season Statistics
| Team / Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Minutes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strasbourg (Ligue 1) | 15 | 1 | 0 | 431 |
| River Plate (Liga Profesional) | 5 | 0 | 0 | 206 |
| CONMEBOL Sudamericana (River Plate) | 1 | 0 | 1 | 39 |
| Ecuador (International) | 1 | 0 | 0 | 13 |
| Total | 22 | 1 | 1 | 689 |
Records & Achievements
- History Maker: He remains the youngest player ever to score in a CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifier (at age 16 against Bolivia).
- U-20 World Cup: Holds the record as the youngest goalscorer in the history of the U-20 FIFA World Cup.
10. Désiré Doué (France): A young talent may be explosive in the FIFA World Cup 2026
Désiré Doué (born June 3, 2005) is a French professional footballer who plays as an attacking midfielder or winger for Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and the France national team. Known for his exceptional dribbling, pace, and agility, he is currently regarded as one of the world’s premier young talents
Recent News & Injury Update
As of April 16, 2026, Doué is recovering from a minor knee injury sustained during PSG’s Champions League quarter-final second leg against Liverpool on April 14.
- Status: He is expected to return to team training within two days (around April 18) following treatment for a knock to his right knee.
- Performance: PSG progressed to the Champions League semi-finals after defeating Liverpool 4–0 on aggregate.
2025/2026 Season Statistics
Doué has been a vital part of PSG’s campaign this season across multiple competitions:
| Competition | Matches | Goals | Assists | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ligue 1 | 18 | 5 | 2 | Average rating of 7.31 |
| Champions League | 10 | 5 | 2 | Scored in key matches vs. Monaco and Sporting |
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