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WHO WILL BE THE YOUNG PROMISES OF THE 2026 WORLD CUP?

The 2026 World Cup promises to be a spectacle brimming with young talent and new stars vying to conquer the football world. With national teams committed to renewal and under-23 players already dominating major leagues, this tournament could mark the beginning of a new era. From South American superstars to African and European gems, we take a look at who the potential future stars are who will make history in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

The Jewels Arriving at the World Cup


The 2026 World Cup is shaping up to be the perfect stage for the explosion of a generation of footballers who are already making waves at their clubs. With the tournament expanded to 48 teams, there will be more room for young prospects to shine on the world stage. And if history has taught us anything, it's that there's always an unexpected revelation that steals the spotlight: Mbappé in 2018, James Rodríguez in 2014, Müller in 2010… who will be next?


Among the most mentioned candidates are names like Endrick (Brazil), Lamine Yamal (Spain), Warren Zaire-Emery (France), Alejandro Garnacho (Argentina), and Arda Güler (Turkey). They all represent the generational shift that promises to keep the competitive spirit of world football alive.


Promises that are already a reality


  • Endrick (Brazil, 18 years old): Real Madrid striker, powerful, fast, and with a goal-scoring instinct reminiscent of Ronaldo Nazário.

  • Lamine Yamal (Spain, 18 years old): FC Barcelona winger, the youngest to debut and score in LaLiga. Technique, flair, and a star's vision. Warren Zaïre-Emery (France, 19 years old): PSG midfielder, captain of the youth teams, and an example of precocious maturity. Alejandro Garnacho (Argentina, 21 years old): the daring Manchester United winger who combines cunning with electric speed. Arda Güler (Turkey, 21 years old): Real Madrid gem with an exquisite left foot and vision, considered the "new Özil." These young figures stand out not only for their talent but also for their ability to take on responsibility in elite teams. In a World Cup where the pressure is immense, their freshness and daring could be the surprise factor that turns matches around and wins hearts.

New stars on every continent


The 2026 World Cup will have a global presence, and that means it's not just Europe and South America that will bring talent. Africa, Asia, and North America are also developing players who could make a splash in the tournament. Each continent seems to have its gem ready to shine when the opening whistle blows.


The names that could surprise


  • Victor Boniface (Nigeria, 23 years old): Bayer Leverkusen striker, pure power and lethal finishing, leads the new African wave.

  • Kendry Páez (Ecuador, 18 years old): Independiente del Valle attacking midfielder, future Chelsea player, with exceptional talent.

  • Ricardo Pepi (USA, 22 years old): a natural number 9 who could lead the host's attack.

  • Takefusa Kubo (Japan, 24 years old): After shining in LaLiga, he could establish himself as the Asian idol of the World Cup.

  • Bilal El Khannouss (Morocco, 21 years old): An elegant midfielder from Genk who combines vision and surgical precision.


The diversity of styles will be fascinating. From the fast, vertical play of the Africans to the tactical discipline of the Asians, the 2026 World Cup will showcase a mosaic of evolving football schools. Many of these young players are already undisputed starters at European clubs, giving them the necessary maturity to face such a demanding tournament.


According to Transfermarkt data, the average market value of the under-23 players who could play in the 2026 World Cup exceeds 30 million euros. This figure reflects the level of confidence clubs place in this new generation. And with technology, nutrition, and tactics evolving by leaps and bounds, today's youth football has a competitive advantage that its predecessors could only dream of.

The world of football is buzzing with anticipation. The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, and national teams are battling for their place in the biggest tournament, where every match defines the dreams and hopes of millions of fans.With three host countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—this edition promises to be historic: more teams, more goals, and a unique global experience. Coaches are fine-tuning their strategies, and players are vying for their ticket to the most anticipated tournament.The countdown has begun. The ball is about to start rolling, and the whole world awaits the moment a new chapter begins.The World Cup is almost here… and the passion is palpable.

The world of football is buzzing with anticipation. The 2026 World Cup is fast approaching, and national teams are battling for their place in the biggest tournament, where every match defines the dreams and hopes of millions of fans.With three host countries—the United States, Mexico, and Canada—this edition promises to be historic: more teams, more goals, and a unique global experience. Coaches are fine-tuning their strategies, and players are vying for their ticket to the most anticipated tournament.The countdown has begun. The ball is about to start rolling, and the whole world awaits the moment a new chapter begins.The World Cup is almost here… and the passion is palpable.

The future is here: statistics and curiosities


The 2026 World Cup will be the biggest tournament in history: 48 teams, 104 matches and thousands of minutes of excitement. But it will also be the World Cup with the largest number of players born after 2003, a generation that grew up watching Messi and Cristiano, and is now seeking its own legacy.


Data that excites fans


  • More than 40% of the players projected for the 2026 World Cup will be under 25 years old.

  • Europe and South America will contribute 70% of the most valuable under-23 talents according to the CIES Football Observatory.

  • Endrick could become the youngest Brazilian to score in a World Cup, surpassing Pelé's record (17 years old in 1958).

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