The FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off on Thursday, June 11. Fans are excited to see both legendary players and new talents. Here are 10 superstars to watch at the tournament.
Top Players to Watch
Lionel Messi (Argentina)
Four years ago, Messi achieved his dream by winning the World Cup. This was the last major trophy missing from his collection. Now 38, he will play in his sixth World Cup, a joint record. Argentina hopes to defend its title, but Messi's playing time might be limited due to his age and fitness.
Lamine Yamal (Spain)
Lamine Yamal is only 18, but he plays with great maturity. He helped Spain win the Euro 2024 title. Now, he is going to his first World Cup. Fans are eager to see his skills. If he keeps up his excellent play and goal-scoring, he could become the youngest player to win the Golden Boot.
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The 2022 World Cup was mixed for Mbappe. He scored a hat-trick in the final but France lost on penalties. However, he won the Golden Boot as the top scorer. Now, with more experience, he aims for the World Cup title in 2026. He is also one goal away from becoming France's all-time leading scorer, a record Olivier Giroud set at 36. Mbappe could achieve this at 27.
Erling Haaland (Norway)
Erling Haaland is one of Europe's most dangerous strikers. He will make his World Cup debut this summer. He led Norway's "golden generation" and was the top scorer in UEFA qualifying with 16 goals. In October, he became only the sixth player in history to score 50 international goals in fewer than 50 games. This 25-year-old is truly a "goal machine."
Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal)
The 2026 World Cup might be Ronaldo's last. At 41, he still shows amazing fitness. He led Portugal to a European title and now hopes to win a World Cup. He had limited playing time in Qatar 2022 but will play more under coach Roberto Martinez. He aims to beat his best World Cup tally of four goals.
Harry Kane (England)
Harry Kane is in top form after winning his second Bundesliga title with Bayern Munich. He was the league's top scorer twice in a row. As England's captain, he brings strong attacking power to one of the tournament favorites. He won the Golden Boot in 2018 with six goals. Kane is expected to compete for the award again. If he wins, he would be the first player to win it twice.
Vinicius Jr (Brazil)
Vinicius Jr has come a long way in four years. In 2022, he was new to the team. Now, he is one of the biggest stars in football. Brazil wants to win the title again, and Vinicius will lead their attack. He is known for his speed, dribbling, and technique. He also has coach Carlo Ancelotti, who helped him shine at Real Madrid. Vinicius was voted The Best FIFA Men’s Player for 2024.
Antoine Semenyo (Ghana)
Antoine Semenyo joined Manchester City this year and quickly impressed with his playmaking. His 10 goals helped City challenge for the title. He also scored a remarkable back-heel goal that won the FA Cup. At the World Cup, Semenyo could become Ghana's key player, especially with midfielder Mohammed Kudus injured. He stands out as Ghana's main talent in a changing squad.
Arda Guler (Turkiye)
Turkiye will return to the World Cup after more than two decades. Fans have high hopes for their promising squad, led by winger Arda Guler. Guler is already one of Europe's best young players. He is ready to show his talent on the world stage in his first major tournament with the national team.
Mohamed Salah (Egypt)
Mohamed Salah is one of Africa's greatest football icons. He has broken many records and won almost every major club honor. However, he has not yet won a title with Egypt. A muscle injury threatened his World Cup chances, but he will lead his team in North America. The "Egyptian King" hopes to achieve success in what might be his final World Cup.
