Next Gen on the Global Stage: Footballers Debuting at the 2026 World Cup
Take a look at the star footballers who would make their debuts at the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, which will take place across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
#26 Yan Diomande - Ivory Coast (forward): The RB Leipzig winger has been one of the most hotly-pursued stars, with clubs such as PSG and Liverpool being on the chase for him. (Photo by FRANCK FIFE / AFP)
#08 Arda Guler - Turkey (midfielder): Guler played a key role for Turkey during their Euro 2024 run, when they reached the quarter-finals. The 21-year-old has a chance to develop a legacy with his performance in the upcoming World Cup. (Photo by Yasin AKGUL / AFP)
#20 Folarin Balogun - United States: Folarin stands out as a unique talent who has precision and can shoot with both feet, making him a talent worth looking out for. (Photo by AFP)
#18 Nico Paz - Argentina (midfielder): Paz recently led Como to a fourth-place finish in Serie A and was voted the Italian top-flight's best midfielder. Argentina would be hopeful that he would carry his form in the World Cup. (Photo by Luis ROBAYO / AFP)
#15 Joao Neves - Portugal (midfielder): Neves recently became a two-time Champions League winner with PSG; his all-action style could be beneficial for the Portuguese side. (Photo by Miguel RIOPA / AFP)
#11 Michael Olise - France (forward): The footballer is coming off a season that would put him in the Ballon d'Or running. With bayerm, he has shown promise with his performance and intends to deliver in the World Cup. (Photo by SIMON WOHLFAHRT / AFP)
#07 Luis Diaz - Colombia (forward): Diaz makes his World Cup debut at age 29 after finding brilliant form in club football. Maintaining form would be key for him in the global football spectacle. (Photo by Raul ARBOLEDA / AFP)
#17 Florian Wirtz - Germany: After missing out on the 2022 World Cup when he recovered from a torn ACL, Wirts would be in action at his maiden World Cup appearance. (Photo by AFP)
#19 Lamine Yamal - Spain (forward): The footballer is seen as Spanish football's great hope after his debut for FC Barcelona as a 15-year-old. He shone at Euro 2024, and is expeted to deliver in the 2026 World Cup. (Photo by Lluis GENE / AFP)
#9 Erling Haaland - Norway: Haaland has a remarkable record, and not only is it the striker's first World Cup appearance, but the first time he plays at a major tournament. (Photo via AFP)
