Predicting Starting XIs for 2026 World Cup Contenders
March 4, 2026 14:28A detailed analysis of the predicted starting XIs, rosters, and strengths of major contenders for the upcoming 2026 World Cup with under 100 days to go.
A detailed analysis of the predicted starting XIs, rosters, and strengths of major contenders for the upcoming 2026 World Cup with under 100 days to go.
Spain and France lead ESPN's World Cup 2026 Power Rankings 100 days ahead of the tournament. Check out the top contenders and key insights from the rankings.
Despite the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Shakhtar Donetsk persists in signing Brazilian soccer players as a key survival strategy amid the challenging circumstances.
Find out who stood out in Europe's top football leagues in January according to ESPN's Player of the Month awards. Lamine Yamal and Endrick take the spotlight.
Lucas Paquetá rejoins Flamengo from West Ham in a record €42 million deal, boosting his World Cup hopes with Brazil. The midfielder's return marks a significant move for the Rio de Janeiro giants.
Julien Laurens provides insights on key matchups: Man City faces Spurs, Arbeloa's Real Madrid takes on Rayo Vallecano, and Flamengo clashes with Corinthians in the Brazilian Super Cup.
West Ham accepts receiving Lucas Paquetá's transfer fee in 24 monthly instalments, awaiting Flamengo's payment division agreement. The Brazilian midfielder's fixed fee is £35.78m with no bonuses included.
Palmeiras' talented trio, Endrick, Luis Guilherme, and Estêvão, face different fates in Europe. Learn about their journeys and the implications for South American clubs.
Multiple NWSL teams show interest in acquiring Chelsea and US forward Catarina Macario as her contract ends on July 1, attracting attention from Europe as well.
Premier League club Aston Villa has made an official offer of £10.4 million for 19-year-old striker Alysson Edward from Grêmio, with negotiations ongoing for the young talent.
AC Milan eyes Liverpool's Alisson and Chelsea and Real Madrid target Murillo from Nottingham Forest. Get the latest on transfer news and rumors.
The concept of the 'group of death' at the 2026 World Cup is fading as the tournament expands to 48 teams, diluting competitiveness and reshaping group dynamics.
Newcastle United plans to tap into the Brazilian market for young talent in the upcoming 2026 summer transfer window, following a strategy outlined by Sporting Director Ross Wilson.
Santos forward Neymar may move to Europe or MLS if he doesn't renew his contract, aiming for the 2026 World Cup. Liverpool pursues Nico Schlotterbeck and Wilfried Singo.
An analysis of Argentina and Brazil's prospects in the 2026 World Cup draw in North America, along with insights on Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, and Uruguay's teams.
With the FIFA World Cup group stage set, Morocco is favored to win Group C, while Australia faces challenges in Group D. Find out the early betting insights here.
Explore the breakdown of each group at the 2026 World Cup with top matches to watch and key predictions by ESPN's writers.
The United States men's national team will compete against Paraguay, Australia, and a UEFA playoff winner in the 2026 World Cup group stage draw, held at the Kennedy Center.
Get to know the 42 confirmed 2026 World Cup teams with unique insights into their playing styles and standout features ahead of the draw.
Negotiations for Vinícius Júnior's new contract at Real Madrid may not resume until after the 2026 World Cup, with strained relations and unresolved issues.
Neymar's return to Santos sees setbacks with injuries and performance, while rising talent Estêvão impresses for Chelsea, potentially overshadowing Neymar's World Cup chances with Brazil.
Explore the rankings and insights of the 64 national teams still in the running for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Analysis includes talent proxy, transfer values, and performance metrics.
Manchester United eyes Wolverhampton Wanderers' João Gomes, while Arsenal targets Borussia Dortmund's Karim Adeyemi. Get the latest transfer news and rumors.
Lucas Paquetá, West Ham midfielder, reveals his wish to return to Flamengo, expressing his desire to reunite with the club in the future after flirtations in the past.
Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti refutes claims of advising Endrick to depart Real Madrid for the 2026 World Cup, emphasizing the decision lies with the player and the club.
As Vinícius Junior navigates a challenging season at Real Madrid, Brazil national team offers a fresh start under coach Ancelotti. Will a change of scenery boost his performance ahead of the World Cup?
Manchester United eyes Wolverhampton's João Gomes and Palmeiras' Vitor Roque for January transfers. Get the latest on transfer rumors.
England faced a disappointing 2-1 loss to Brazil in their 'Homecoming Series' after going two goals down early and failing to take advantage of a 10-player Brazil side.
Gabriel Jesus expresses desire to remain at Arsenal until his contract expires in June 2027, despite rumors of a potential departure. The Brazilian forward provides an update on his recovery from a significant knee injury.
Estêvão, the Chelsea teen, breaks multiple records including youngest Champions League goalscorer and youngest Brazilian to score a winning Premier League goal.