The FIFA World Cup is football’s grandest stage, and in 2026, it promises to be bigger and better than ever. A historic first, the tournament will span three host nations—Canada, Mexico, and the United States—sharing the spectacle across 16 dazzling cities. This colossal edition of the World Cup also introduces an expanded format, with 48 teams vying for glory instead of the traditional 32.
It’s football like we’ve never seen, packed with new narratives, fresh rivalries, and an abundance of opportunity for rising stars to shine. Indeed, anticipation has already reached a fever pitch, and we’re still just under a year out from the tournament’s official kickoff in Mexico City on June 11th. But next summer’s showdown isn’t the sole thing fans should be excited about at the moment.
The launch of the highly anticipated Lucky Rebel website has also garnered plenty of attention. The fledgling outlet is set to be the number one place for sports fans to visit upon its release in August 2025. The site is thought to be a game-changer, and you can expect it to cover next summer’s World Cup in unparalleled depth. But which players will it be discussing in 12 months?
Well, the 2026 World Cup is set to feature a plethora of young guns bulldozing their way onto the grandest stage with authority. But who are they, and what can we expect to see? Let’s find out.
Lamine Yamal
Spain has unearthed yet another diamond in the form of winger Lamine Yamal. At just 18 years old, the Barcelona superstar has already transcended “promising teenager” status to become one of the most talked-about players in world football. A stunning Euro 2024 campaign saw Yamal help guide La Roja to a record-breaking fourth European Championship title, before going on to shine with club team Barcelona.
Breaking Pelé’s record as the youngest player to feature in a major final, Yamal capped off Euro 2024 with imperious stats—a goal, four assists, and countless game-changing moments. His football IQ, incisive passing, and unmatched ability to glide past defenders make him indispensable for Spain, who enter the 2026 World Cup as clear favorites.
While spectators marvel at Tamal’s audacious dribbles and no-look passes, it’s his clinical decision-making in high-pressure moments that sets him apart. Crucially for Barcelona, he delivered 18 goals and a whopping 25 assists to lead his side to a La Liga, Copa del Rey, and Spanish Super Cup treble.
With his fingerprints already etched on nearly every major trophy, Yamal heads into the World Cup as the heartbeat of the much-fancied Spaniards. The world waits to see if he’ll soar again under the bright North American lights.
Désiré Doué
If 19-year-old Désiré Doué’s 2025 UEFA Champions League final performance was anything to go by, “future superstar” may not be a bold enough label for what’s coming. The talented attacker was at the heart of Paris Saint-Germain’s historic 5-0 dismantling of Inter Milan, scoring two goals and assisting another. That electrifying display cemented PSG’s first European crown and marked Doué as football’s next unstoppable force.
Standing tall on football’s biggest stages goes beyond Doué’s club duties. For France, the forward’s versatility across attacking positions mirrors the dynamism of a young Kylian Mbappé – who will be his captain in a year’s time – and the improvisation of Neymar. Boasting lightning-quick acceleration, intelligent off-ball movement, and a composure in front of goal that transcends his age, the teenager has slotted seamlessly into a French national team brimming with talent.
Heading into the 2026 tournament, Doué’s role alongside Mbappé and club teammate Ousmane Dembélé could form one of the most menacing frontlines in recent memory. Les Bleus are targeting redemption in North America after their thrilling defeat to Argentina in Qatar three years ago, and Doué’s game-changing brilliance makes them a terrifying prospect for any opponent. Don’t be surprised to see the French in a third straight final next summer.
Estevão
For Brazil, the World Cup has long been the stage for magic. But heading into 2026, this footballing titan finds itself in a state of transition. With an aging Neymar struggling with injuries and Vinícius Jr. inconsistent on the international stage, the Selecao’s identity hangs in limbo. Enter Estevão.
The 19-year-old phenom emerged as a saving grace during turbulent times. Beginning his rise with Palmeiras, the youngster’s creative spark and jaw-dropping technical skills quickly earned him a ticket to European football. At Chelsea, we are awaiting to see what impact he will make, but should he continue to display an innate ability to conjure goals from out of nothing, he will reignite Brazilian hopes of redemption.
Estevão’s playing style feels like an ode to Brazil’s golden years—fluid dribbling, audacious tricks, and scintillating strikes from distance. What makes him integral to Brazil’s resurgence is his willingness to shoulder responsibility, even as a teenager. If the Seleção is to claim a record-extending sixth title, Estevão stands as the X-factor.
