2026 World Cup: International Rookies Who Could Make an Impact

- Discover the rising stars set to shine at the 2026 World Cup, including Elliot Anderson, Luka Vuskovic, Luis Suárez, and more, as they gear up for the prestigious tournament.

2026 World Cup: Rising Stars to Watch

As the 2026 World Cup approaches, new talents are emerging on the international stage, potentially influencing the tournament's outcome. Let's explore some of the promising rookies who could make a significant impact:

Elliot Anderson, CM, England

With standout performances and impressive stats, Anderson is expected to partner with Declan Rice in England's midfield, bringing energy and defensive prowess to the team.

Luka Vuskovic, CB, Croatia

Vuskovic's exceptional aerial duel win rate and stellar displays have positioned him as a key player for Croatia, earning praise for his solid defensive skills.

Luis Suárez, ST, Colombia

Colombia's attacking lineup sees a transformation with Suárez's goal-scoring prowess, making him a vital asset after an impressive season at Sporting CP.

Nico O'Reilly, LB, England

Despite his limited caps, O'Reilly's solid performances for Manchester City have earned him a spot in England's defense, showcasing his abilities in crucial duels.

Deniz Undav, ST, Germany

Undav's goal-scoring record in the Bundesliga positions him as a valuable substitute for Germany, offering a different attacking style to impact games.

Nico Paz, AM, Argentina

Paz's creative flair and goal contributions make him a promising candidate to support Lionel Messi in Argentina's midfield, providing versatility and attacking threat.

Tomás Araújo, CB, Portugal

Araújo's breakthrough season at Benfica has caught the eye of Portugal's national team, potentially leading to a significant defensive role in the upcoming World Cup.

Dean Huijsen, CB, Spain

With his adept passing and defensive skills, Huijsen aims to secure a spot in Spain's lineup, contributing to their possession-based style of play in the tournament.

Igor Thiago and João Pedro, ST, Brazil

Thiago and Pedro bring different strengths to Brazil's forward line, offering options for coach Carlo Ancelotti to vary the team's attacking approach during the World Cup.

Hugo Ekitike, ST, France

Despite stiff competition, Ekitike's form for Liverpool suggests he could play a pivotal role for France, adding depth to their talented squad and providing valuable contributions.

Shocking Call-ups and Young Talents

Several surprise call-ups and young talents, including Lennart Karl, Paul Wanner, Carney Chukwuemeka, and more, are poised to make their mark on the international stage, potentially influencing the World Cup outcomes with their skills and determination.