FIFA World Cup 2026: Eight young players to watch out for

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is almost upon us, and despite a build-up that has been accompanied by its fair share of controversy — from debates surrounding the tournament's expanded 48-team format to concerns over scheduling, logistics, and player workload — the anticipation that surrounds football's biggest event remains impossible to ignore.

For all the discussion away from the pitch, World Cup fever is beginning to take hold. The tournament has always possessed a unique ability to capture the imagination of fans across the globe, bringing together established superstars, emerging nations, and unforgettable storylines in a way no other sporting event can match.

Naturally, much of the attention will focus on the game's household names. Whether it's the enduring presence of legends such as Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, or the established stars already dominating the Champions League and Europe's top domestic leagues, the spotlight will inevitably shine brightest on football's biggest attractions.

Yet every World Cup also serves as football's greatest shop window. It is the stage where reputations are made, careers are transformed, and a new generation announces itself to the world. From Kylian Mbappé's emergence in 2018 to James Rodríguez's breakout performances in 2014, history is filled with players who used the tournament as a launchpad to global stardom.

The expanded format in 2026 will provide even more opportunities for young talents to showcase themselves. More matches, more nations, and more eyes watching means a greater chance for emerging stars to seize their moment. Some arrive with growing reputations and sky-high expectations; others remain relatively unknown outside their domestic leagues. All, however, possess the talent to become household names by the time the final whistle blows in North America.

Here are some players to watch out for at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Rayan Cherki - France 

One of the most naturally creative attackers in Europe, Cherki joined Manchester City and added another layer of flair to their attack. In 2025/26, his technical brilliance and attacking versatility made him one of City's performers over the course of the season.

Viktor Gyökeres - Sweden 

Gyökeres is expected to lead Sweden at the 2026 World Cup after becoming the focal point of their attack during qualifying. In the 2025/26 season, he helped Arsenal win their first Premier League title since 2004, scoring 14 league goals - despite needing time to adapt after his move from Portugal.

Esmir Bajraktarević - Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bajraktarević is an attacking winger known for his close control, acceleration, and creativity in one-on-one situations. After developing with the New England Revolution, he moved to PSV Eindhoven, where he spent the 2025/26 season adapting to European football. He featured across domestic and European competitions, continuing his development as one of Bosnia's most exciting young internationals ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Nestory Irankunda - Australia 

Irankunda is a lightning-quick winger with explosive shooting ability and direct attacking instincts. The Australian international joined FC Bayern Munich in2024 before later gaining senior experience with Grasshopper Club Zürich and signing for Watford in July 2025. At Watford, he settled into life in the Championship fairly quickly and impressed with his pace, dribbling, and ability to stretch defenses.

Rayan - Brazil 

The Bournemouth attacker is viewed by many as a rising talent with strong dribbling ability and flair in wide areas. During 2025/26, he broke further into Bournemouth's senior setup and stood out in an impressive season for the club.

Lamine Yamal - Spain 

Already one of world football's elite young stars, Yamal became central to both Barcelona and Spain before turning 20. In 2025/26, he played a huge role in Barcelona's domestic success and was a standout performer in the Champions League.

Folarin Balogun - USA 

A mobile striker with sharp movement and strong finishing instincts. Balogun remained a key attacking option for Monaco during the 2025/26 season, contributing goals and helping them compete near the top of Ligue 1 ahead of a home World Cup for the U.S.

Iliman Ndiaye - Senegal

A skilful and hard-working forward capable of playing across the frontline, Ndiaye remained an important player for Everton in 2025/26, contributing goals, pressing intensity, and creativity while continuing to lead Senegal's attacking generation heading into World Cup 2026.

Of course, while individual brilliance can often define a World Cup, football's biggest prize is ultimately won by teams. Lifting the trophy in July will require far more than emerging talent alone. It requires squad depth, experience and the ability to handle the immense pressure of a month-long tournament will all prove decisive.