Top 10 Young Stars to Watch at the 2026 World Cup

Best Young Players Set to Shine at the 2026 World Cup

The World Cup has always been thrilling, but there's a special excitement in seeing fresh talent burst onto the global stage. The 2026 tournament will showcase some of soccer’s brightest young stars, including Spain's Lamine Yamal and Ivory Coast’s Yan Diomande.

1. Lamine Yamal, Forward, Spain

At just 18 years old, Lamine Yamal leads the list of top under-21 players. Playing for Barcelona, he scored 24 goals and provided 17 assists over 45 games this season. Despite his youth, Yamal shows a maturity on the field that goes beyond statistics. His presence promises to captivate fans worldwide as he takes part in his first World Cup.

2. Joao Neves, Central Midfielder, Portugal

Joao Neves, 21, has been a key figure behind Paris Saint-Germain's successes, including their consecutive Champions League wins. With an impressive 91.4% pass completion rate, he quietly supports Portugal’s attacking stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes.

3. Desire Doue, Forward, France

Another rising star from Paris Saint-Germain, 21-year-old Desire Doue already boasts seven caps with France. Known for taking control during friendlies, including a two-goal performance against Colombia, Doue is steadily climbing the ranks behind more famous French forwards.

4. Arda Guler, Attacking Midfielder, Turkey

With the most international appearances on this list at 30 caps, Arda Guler, 21, has become a vital player for Real Madrid. His creativity and assist numbers have doubled this season, making him essential to Turkey's strategy, especially linking up with fellow youngster Kenan Yildiz.

5. Pau Cubarsi, Center Back, Spain

The 19-year-old defender Pau Cubarsi is highly praised by Barcelona supporters for his calm and controlled style. With over 3,000 touches this season, he plays a crucial role in Spain’s possession-based game, supporting wingers like Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams.

6. Nico O'Reilly, Left Back, England

Winner of the 2026 Premier League Young Player of the Year, 21-year-old Nico O'Reilly represents Manchester City. Though classified as a defender, he often pushes forward into midfield roles. His value surged this season, and he could be a key player for England this summer.

7. Nico Paz, Attacking Midfielder, Argentina

On loan from Real Madrid to Como, 21-year-old Nico Paz had a breakout season, helping secure Como's first-ever Champions League spot. Scoring 13 goals and assisting seven, Paz might become Argentina’s secret weapon as they aim to extend their legacy beyond the 2022 triumph.

8. Kenan Yildiz, Forward, Turkey

Despite Juventus having a tough year, 21-year-old Kenan Yildiz stood out. Finishing among Serie A’s top goal scorers and assisters, Yildiz and Arda Guler form a potent duo, promising a bright future for Turkey’s attack.

9. Warren Zaire-Emery, Central Midfielder, France

Another young talent from Paris Saint-Germain, 20-year-old Warren Zaire-Emery offers energy and control in midfield. While not always visible in scoring stats, his influence on both offense and defense makes him a key piece in France’s quest for World Cup glory.

10. Yan Diomande, Forward, Ivory Coast

RB Leipzig’s 19-year-old Yan Diomande impresses with his speed, clocking nearly 23 mph in Bundesliga tests. He delivered 13 goals and nine assists in 36 matches, ranking among his team’s best performers and adding pace to Ivory Coast’s frontline.