10 footballers who could grab attention at the 2026 World Cup

After years of anticipation and preparation, the 2026 World Cup will kick off in just over 24 hours, when co-hosts Mexico will face South Africa in a repeat of the opening match of the 2010 World Cup.

Over the next five and a half weeks, records will be broken and new stories will be written, as some of the greatest footballers of the modern era will battle it out for the most prestigious trophy in football.

For some players, however, this World Cup could be the moment that changes their careers forever. The tournament's history is filled with names who entered the competition as unknowns and emerged as global stars.

Ibrahim Maza (Algeria)

The 20-year-old is coming off a very good season with Bayer Leverkusen in the Bundesliga, where he contributed five goals and six assists. The young striker is increasingly gaining ground in an Algeria team filled with well-known names.

Nestory Irankunda (Australia)

The Australian talent broke through at the age of 16 with Adelaide United, before securing a move to Bayern Munich in 2024. His speed and ability to create danger make him one of Australia's most exciting players.

Kerim Alajbegovic (Bosnia and Herzegovina)

The 18-year-old is expected to start for Bosnia in their return to the World Cup. The winger scored 13 goals for Red Bull Salzburg last season, convincing Bayer Leverkusen to bring him back to the team.

Pavel Sulc (Czech Republic)

The attacking midfielder has been one of the revelations of Czech football. After two seasons with 20 goals for Viktoria Plzen, he also excelled at Lyon with 14 goals and seven assists.

Noah Sadiki (DR Congo)

The midfielder was a key factor in Sunderland's impressive season. Although he didn't get as much attention as other names in the squad, his impact in midfield was crucial.

Yan Diomande (Ivory Coast)

The 19-year-old is one of the most sought-after talents in Europe. He was named the Bundesliga's best debutant after 12 goals and eight assists for Leipzig, with Liverpool and PSG monitoring his situation.

Gilberto Mora (Mexico)

The youngest player of the entire tournament, just 17 years old, is considered the future of Mexican football. The Tijuana midfielder is expected to play an important role in front of the home fans.

Antonio Nusa (Norway)

Often called the "Norwegian Neymar," Nusa is one of Norway's most dangerous weapons alongside Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard. The World Cup could turn him into a global star.

Ben Gannon-Doak (Scotland)

The Liverpool talent was seen as one of the most promising names in British football, but injuries have slowed his development. However, he remains a player with incredible potential.

Johan Manzambi (Switzerland)

The 20-year-old midfielder has attracted attention with his performances for Freiburg in the Europa League. His energy, tactical intelligence and ability to win the ball over make him one of the most exciting talents in the tournament.