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20 young stars to watch at the 2026 World Cup

From The Punch · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

In-depth From a news agency Context piece
  • The 2026 World Cup is anticipated to be a platform for emerging young talents alongside established football powers.
  • Several nations are expected to feature new faces who have made an impact at the club level.
  • The article lists 20 promising young players to watch during the tournament.

The 2026 World Cup is poised to be more than just a contest between established football giants; it is shaping up to be a significant showcase for a new generation of international talent. Young players and emerging stars are stepping out of academy systems, breakthrough seasons, and youth tournaments to compete on football's biggest stage.

The winner of the Bundesliga rookie of the season award, Diomande only joined from Spanish side Leganes in July 2025 for a bargain 20m euros (£17.2m) and promptly registered 21 goal contributions (12 goals and nine assists) in 33 league appearances to help Leipzig qualify for the Champions League.

— BBC SportDescribing the impressive performance of Yan Diomande for RB Leipzig.

National teams across different continents are increasingly relying on fresh faces who have already begun to impress at their respective clubs. These players range from teenagers newly entering senior football to slightly older prospects finally translating early promise into consistent performances. The tournament represents a pivotal moment, potentially defining the next stage of their careers.

According to BBC Sport, the following are the top 20 new players to watch at the 2026 World Cup, which is scheduled to be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Among them is Yan Diomande, a 19-year-old winger for RB Leipzig, who has garnered interest from top European clubs like Liverpool and Manchester City. Diomande, the Bundesliga rookie of the season, joined Leipzig in July 2025 and recorded 21 goal contributions in 33 league appearances, helping his team qualify for the Champions League.

Mora was nicknamed ‘The Mexican Pedri’, ‘The Mexican Pearl’ and ‘Crackito’ (which translates to ‘Little Maestro’) by the Spanish press after he starred against Spain at last year’s Under-20 World Cup.

— BBC SportDetailing the accolades and potential of Mexican midfielder Gilberto Mora.

Another notable young talent is 17-year-old Mexican midfielder Gilberto Mora, nicknamed 'The Mexican Pedri' and 'The Mexican Pearl.' Mora's performances at the Under-20 World Cup have attracted attention from European clubs, including Real Madrid and Manchester City. Switzerland's Johan Manzambi, a 20-year-old midfielder for SC Freiburg, is also highlighted for his versatility and skill in the final third, with Swiss fans holding high hopes for his contribution. The list also features American striker Ricardo Pepi, who had a prolific season with PSV Eindhoven, and Argentinian midfielder Nico Paz, known for emulating Lionel Messi's goal celebrations.

Manzambi can play in various positions in midfield and is pretty good in the final third too. He carries the ball really well and I know the Swiss fans have got big hopes for him – Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka has done an interview praising him as well.

— BBC SportHighlighting the skills and expectations surrounding Swiss midfielder Johan Manzambi.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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