The stage is set. The players are ready. The hosts are prepared. The fans are eagerly waiting. All that remains is for the action to begin on the pitch as the world’s finest footballers take centre stage.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off on June 11.
Two of football’s greatest icons, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, are likely to be playing in their final World Cup. Alongside them are emerging stars such as Erling Haaland and Lamine Yamal, as well as established superstar Kylian Mbappé, who has already lifted the World Cup at a young age.
Football fans around the world are eagerly anticipating the performances of these stars. The 39-day tournament, jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, will feature 1,248 players representing 48 nations. While some players have already experienced World Cup glory, many are making their debut on football’s biggest stage.
Here are seven players whose performances could define the tournament.