Top Soccer Players to Watch at the 2026 World Cup

The 2026 World Cup, starting on Thursday afternoon, showcases global soccer superstars including Lionel Messi from Argentina and Cristiano Ronaldo. Before matches commence, here’s a closer look at players expected to make significant impacts for their nations.

Lionel Messi, Argentina

Arguably the greatest player, Lionel Messi, boasts a record eight Ballon d’Or awards. He has secured ten Spanish championships and four European Champions League titles, scoring 672 goals for Barcelona, the most by a player for a single club. Internationally, Messi was pivotal in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup victory, leading with 116 career goals. In the final against France, he scored twice, one from a penalty and another in extra time, securing the win. At 38, Messi remains impactful, with 12 goals and eight assists for MLS’ Inter Miami, maintaining his high-level performance. Argentina, ranked third by FIFA, relies on Messi’s skills to defend their title, aiming to be the first team since Brazil in 1962 to win consecutive World Cups.

Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal

Cristiano Ronaldo, a renowned and wealthy soccer icon, is making a sixth and final World Cup appearance. At 41, his motivation stems from the quest for a World Cup title, a gap in his illustrious career, especially following Messi’s 2022 victory. Ronaldo debuted as part of Portugal’s golden generation, with the 2016 Euros as their highest achievement. Since moving to Saudi Arabia in 2023, Ronaldo has faced challenges in returning to top form, especially after the loss of teammate Diogo Jota, which affected national team dynamics. Yet, he remains central to Portugal’s hopes.

Kylian Mbappé, France

Kylian Mbappé became a French soccer legend at 19, helping win the 2018 World Cup. At 27, he’s leading France again in pursuit of a third title. Mbappé, the son of a former coach, began at AS Monaco, gaining attention with 21 goals for Paris Saint-Germain at 18. His World Cup debut marked him as a promising talent, and by 2022, he had further impressed by scoring twice in the final, although France lost on penalties. This year, Mbappé, recovering from an injury, aims to guide France back to the finals, following a prolific season with Real Madrid.

Sadio Mané, Senegal

Sadio Mané, a top African player, plans to end his international career post-2026 World Cup. At 34, his experience and leadership are vital for Senegal’s squad. Though missing the 2022 World Cup due to injury, Mané’s impact was evident in the Africa Cup of Nations, where Senegal won in 2021 and placed as runners-up in 2019 and controversially in 2025. The Teranga Lions, bolstered by Mané, aim to replicate their 2002 quarterfinal success.

Son Heung-min, South Korea

Son Heung-min joined LAFC from Tottenham, joining MLS amidst much fanfare. Known for his popularity and creativity on the field, Son is a crucial figure for South Korea. Despite recent scoring challenges, his assist record in MLS is promising for the national team. This World Cup marks his fourth appearance, as South Korea sets sights on progressing past the group stage, with Mexico as a key contender.

Virgil van Dijk, Netherlands

Despite uncertainties about his future with the national team, Virgil van Dijk, a renowned defender and captain, leads a formidable Netherlands squad. The Dutch excelled in qualifications, though injuries like Xavi Simons’ affect their prospects. With young talents like Frenkie de Jong, the Netherlands aims to surpass previous tournament performances, hoping to culminate van Dijk’s career with a title.

Luka Modrić, Croatia

Luka Modrić, once the world’s best player, captains Croatia likely for the last time at age 40. Known for his playmaking excellence, Modrić led Croatia to notable World Cup finishes in the past. This year, despite lower expectations, Modrić’s presence could inspire another strong showing, as he seeks a spectacular career finale.

Mohamed Salah, Egypt

After a challenging year and parting with Liverpool, Mohamed Salah leads Egypt’s campaign at the World Cup. Known as “The Egyptian King,” Salah aims to elevate Egypt’s World Cup legacy, leading the team with his skill and experience. Egypt, returning to the World Cup since 2018, looks to advance beyond the group stage for the first time in decades.