Argentina’s Lionel Messi runs with the ball during a friendly soccer match against Mauritania in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Friday, March 27, 2026. (AP Photo/Gustavo Garello, File)
Two of soccer’s all-time greats will likely make their final bows on the sport’s biggest stage at the 2026 World Cup .
Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo can finally pass the baton on to a new generation including Spain’s Lamine Yamal.
Kylian Mbappé — who was only 19 when he won the World Cup with France in 2018 — is still waiting to confirm his place as the heir-apparent to Messi and Ronaldo.
But there are others, too, aiming to make their mark in the United States, Canada and Mexico, from Norwegian LIVE machine Erling Haaland to Team USA’s Christian Pulisic .
Here are 10 players to watch this year’s World Cup.
The magnificent Messi finally achieved his career ambition in Qatar four years ago by leading Argentina to World Cup glory and emulating national icon Diego Maradona.
With it, Messi effectively completed soccer, winning the top titles for club, country and individually.
Share this page
Post this page on social platforms or copy the link directly.
Comments
Leave your opinion or note on this page.
