The FIFA World Cup has always been a platform for young talent to announce themselves on the global stage. From Pelé in 1958 to Kylian Mbappé in 2018, the tournament has a rich history of showcasing the next generation of soccer superstars. As we look ahead to the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, a new wave of young stars is emerging, ready to take the world by storm. These players, many of whom are still in their teens or early twenties, are already making waves at club level and are poised to become household names by the time the tournament kicks off. Here’s a look at some of the most promising young talents who could shine in 2026.
1. Jude Bellingham (England)
At just 20 years old, Jude Bellingham has already established himself as one of the best midfielders in the world. After a stellar spell at Borussia Dortmund, Bellingham made a high-profile move to Real Madrid in 2023, where he has continued to impress with his vision, passing, and ability to control the tempo of the game.
Bellingham’s performances for England have also been exceptional. He played a key role in the Three Lions’ run to the Euro 2024 final, and his leadership qualities have already seen him wear the captain’s armband for both club and country. By 2026, Bellingham will be 23 and likely at the peak of his powers, making him one of the players to watch in the tournament.
2. Gavi (Spain)
Pablo Martín Páez Gavira, better known as Gavi, is another young midfielder who has taken the soccer world by storm. At just 19, Gavi has already become a mainstay for both Barcelona and the Spanish national team. Known for his tenacity, technical ability, and fearless style of play, Gavi has drawn comparisons to Spanish legends like Xavi and Andrés Iniesta.
Gavi played a crucial role in Spain’s 2022 World Cup campaign, and his partnership with fellow young star Pedri has been a joy to watch. By 2026, Gavi will be 22 and could be the driving force behind Spain’s quest for a second World Cup title.
3. Jamal Musiala (Germany)
Jamal Musiala is one of the most exciting young talents in world soccer. The 20-year-old attacking midfielder has been a revelation for Bayern Munich, showcasing his dribbling skills, creativity, and eye for goal. Musiala’s ability to play in multiple positions makes him a valuable asset for both club and country.
Musiala was a standout performer for Germany at the 2022 World Cup, and his performances have only improved since then. By 2026, he will be 23 and could be the focal point of Germany’s attack as they look to reclaim their status as world champions.
4. Alphonso Davies (Canada)
Alphonso Davies is already a superstar, but the 2026 World Cup could be his defining moment. The 23-year-old left-back, who plays for Bayern Munich, is known for his blistering pace, defensive solidity, and ability to contribute in attack. Davies played a key role in Canada’s qualification for the 2022 World Cup, their first appearance in the tournament since 1986.
As co-hosts in 2026, Canada will be looking to make a deep run in the tournament, and Davies will be at the heart of their efforts. His experience at the highest level and his ability to perform on the big stage make him one of the most exciting players to watch in 2026.
5. Ansu Fati (Spain)
Ansu Fati burst onto the scene as a teenager at Barcelona, becoming the club’s youngest-ever goal scorer in La Liga. Despite struggling with injuries in recent years, Fati has shown glimpses of his immense talent, and at just 21, he still has plenty of time to fulfill his potential.
Fati’s pace, dribbling, and finishing ability make him a nightmare for defenders, and he has already earned caps for the Spanish national team. If he can stay fit, Fati could be one of the breakout stars of the 2026 World Cup.
6. Youssoufa Moukoko (Germany)
Youssoufa Moukoko is one of the most highly-rated young strikers in world soccer. At just 19, Moukoko has already made a name for himself at Borussia Dortmund, where he has been prolific in front of goal. His speed, agility, and clinical finishing have drawn comparisons to some of the game’s greatest forwards.
Moukoko made his debut for the German national team in 2022 and has since become a regular in the squad. By 2026, he will be 22 and could be leading the line for Germany as they aim to add to their four World Cup titles.
7. Endrick (Brazil)
Endrick is one of the most exciting young talents to emerge from Brazil in recent years. The 17-year-old forward, who joined Real Madrid in 2024, has been compared to Brazilian legends like Ronaldo and Romário due to his incredible goal-scoring ability and technical skills.
Endrick has already made his debut for the Brazilian national team, and his performances have generated a lot of buzz. By 2026, he will be 20 and could be the next superstar to lead Brazil’s attack on the world stage.
8. Alejandro Garnacho (Argentina)
Alejandro Garnacho is another young player who has been making waves in recent years. The 19-year-old winger, who plays for Manchester United, is known for his pace, dribbling, and ability to create chances. Garnacho has already earned caps for the Argentine national team and has been tipped for a bright future.
With Argentina looking to defend their World Cup title in 2026, Garnacho could play a key role in their campaign. His flair and creativity make him a player to watch in the tournament.
9. Warren Zaïre-Emery (France)
Warren Zaïre-Emery is one of the most promising young midfielders in world soccer. At just 18, Zaïre-Emery has already broken into the first team at Paris Saint-Germain and has been praised for his composure, passing, and ability to control the midfield.
Zaïre-Emery has also represented France at youth level and is expected to make his senior debut soon. By 2026, he could be a key player for France as they aim to add to their two World Cup titles.
10. Mathys Tel (France)
Mathys Tel is another young French talent who has been turning heads in recent years. The 18-year-old forward, who plays for Bayern Munich, is known for his pace, technical ability, and eye for goal. Tel has already made his debut for the French national team and has been tipped for a bright future.
With France’s track record of developing young talent, Tel could be one of the breakout stars of the 2026 World Cup.