As the 2026 World Cup approaches, football fans will be eagerly watching renowned players like Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Kylian Mbappe, and Harry Kane compete for the ultimate prize. However, alongside these veterans, a new wave of talent is preparing to make its mark on the global stage. With 48 teams vying for supremacy, many emerging players could significantly impact the outcome this July.
In our analysis, we spotlight individuals who have yet to make extensive appearances for their national teams, boasting 10 or fewer caps, yet possess the potential to influence the tournament’s course, either as starters or impactful substitutes.
Promising Young Talents
Elliot Anderson, CM, England – 7 caps
Key stats: Anderson has recorded the third-most tackles and interceptions (90) in the Premier League this season. After two standout seasons at Nottingham Forest, he has quickly adapted to the national team, showcasing a balance of experience and energy in midfield.
Anderson’s all-around skills make him a formidable presence, both defensively and in maintaining possession. His strong performances have sparked interest from top clubs like Manchester City and Manchester United, emphasizing his rising status in the football world.
Luka Vusković, CB, Croatia – 4 caps
Key stats: Vusković boasts a 75.3% aerial duel win rate in the Bundesliga.
The Croatian media recently described Vusković’s performance against Colombia as “not normal,” highlighting the 19-year-old’s remarkable impact. Playing on loan at Hamburg from Tottenham Hotspur, he has been named Bundesliga Young Player of the Month multiple times this season. His early success sets high expectations for his role in the upcoming World Cup.
Luis Suarez, ST, Colombia – 10 caps
Key stats: Suarez has scored 24 goals in 25 league appearances for Sporting CP this season.
With Colombia’s former stars now retired, Suarez is poised to lead the new generation of attackers for Los Cafeteros. His impressive scoring record and recent impactful performances for the national team mark him as a crucial player for Colombia this tournament.
Nico O’Reilly, LB, England – 3 caps
Key stats: O’Reilly won the most duels in the Premier League with 132 for Manchester City.
With a relatively inexperienced defensive lineup, O’Reilly’s rapid development at Manchester City under manager Josep Guardiola has made him a critical figure for England. Despite only three caps, his performance suggests he will be an essential asset this summer.
Emerging Stars Off the Bench
Deniz Undav, ST, Germany – 7 caps
Key stats: Undav has scored 18 goals for VfB Stuttgart, second only to Kane in the Bundesliga. While he may not start regularly for Germany, his ability to change games from the bench could make him a valuable player in the World Cup.
Nicopas, AM, Argentina – 8 caps
Key stats: Nicopas has contributed 16 goals in Serie A this season.
At just 21 years old, Nicopas finds himself in an important role, especially as Lionel Messi’s playing time wanes. His outstanding performance at Como makes him a prime candidate to step into a more significant position during the World Cup.
Tomás Araujo, CB, Portugal – 3 caps
Key stats: Araujo has committed only 6 fouls in 20 Primeira Liga games.
After establishing himself as a vital part of Benfica’s squad, Araujo’s performances have attracted attention at the international level. With injuries affecting key players, he may soon be thrust into a crucial role for Portugal.
Dean Huisen, CB, Spain – 7 caps
Key stats: Huisen completes an average of 11.38 passes into the final third per game, one of the highest rates in LaLiga.
Although he faces stiff competition from seasoned players, Huisen’s ability to maintain possession and penetrate defenses makes him an important candidate for Spain’s squad at the World Cup.
Igor Thiago and Joao Pedro, ST, Brazil – 7 and 2 caps respectively
Key stats: They rank among the top Premier League scorers with 19 and 14 goals, respectively.
Thiago and Pedro offer different styles to Brazil’s attack. While Thiago adds a more traditional forward presence, Pedro’s agility and connection play enhance the team’s dynamics upfront. They both represent Carlo Ancelotti’s tactical fluidity.
Hugo Equitique, ST, France – 8 caps
Key stats: Equitique scored 23 goals in his debut season with Liverpool.
As France’s striking options are loaded with talent, securing a place in the squad for the World Cup may be challenging for Equitique. However, his form suggests he could play a vital role if given the opportunity.
Surprising Call-ups
Lennart Karl, AM, Germany – 2 caps
Key stats: Karl has contributed significantly with 13 goals across Bundesliga and Champions League matches.
After impressive performances for Bayern Munich, Karl earned his call-up to the national team just in time for the World Cup—and he may have an important role to play this summer.
Paul Wanner & Carney Chukwuemeka, CM, Austria – 2 caps each
Key stats: Wanner has started 14 league games on loan at PSV, contributing four goals, while Chukwuemeka scored in his Austria debut.
Both young prospects have announced their intentions with early performances for the Austrian national team, marking their sights on a pivotal role at the World Cup this summer.
Rayan, FW, Brazil – 1 cap
Key stats: Rayan has contributed 0.4 goals per game, ranking high among Brazilian-born players in the Premier League this season.
After a successful move to AFC Bournemouth from Vasco da Gama, Rayan has emerged as a potential candidate for Brazil’s World Cup squad due to his promising performances.
Max Dowman, FW, England – Uncapped
Key stats: Dowman is the youngest goalscorer in Premier League history at 16 years and 73 days old.
Despite being uncapped for the national team, Dowman’s performance on the field catches the attention of England’s manager, Thomas Tuchel, who has hinted at a potential call-up if he continues his scoring run.
Seny Mayur, CM, France – Uncapped
Key stats: Mayur has netted 10 goals in Ligue 1 and Champions League play.
Despite his impressive form for PSG, manager Didier Deschamps has yet to offer Mayur a chance on the international stage, illustrating the competitive nature of securing spots in this esteemed tournament.
