{"id":18153,"date":"2026-04-25T17:18:02","date_gmt":"2026-04-25T17:18:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/?p=18153"},"modified":"2026-05-19T08:19:36","modified_gmt":"2026-05-19T08:19:36","slug":"ranked-the-best-players-heading-to-world-cup","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/ranked-the-best-players-heading-to-world-cup","title":{"rendered":"Ranked: The 25 Best Players Heading to the 2026 World Cup"},"content":{"rendered":"\r\n<p>The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/en-us\/football\/league\/fifa-world-cup-5930\">2026 FIFA World Cup<\/a>, spread across 16 cities in the United States, Canada and Mexico, is fast approaching. With 48 nations competing for the first time in history, the expanded format promises more football, more drama and more opportunities for the sport&#8217;s finest players to leave their mark. We have assembled 25 names who could shape the tournament this summer and ranked them draft-style, counting down from a generational talent only just finding his feet at the top level to the teenage phenomenon who could define the entire summer.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<div id=\"rank-math-toc\" class=\"wp-block-rank-math-toc-block\">\r\n<h2>An incredible World Cup awaits<\/h2>\r\n<nav>\r\n<ul>\r\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#25-rayan-cherki-manchester-city-attacking-midfielder-france\">25. Attacking Midfielder | France<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#24-desire-doue-paris-saint-germain-winger-france\">24. Winger | France<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#23-declan-rice-arsenal-central-midfielder-england\">23. Central Midfielder | England<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#22-jude-bellingham-real-madrid-attacking-midfielder-england\">22. Attacking Midfielder | England<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#21-julian-alvarez-atletico-madrid-forward-argentina\">21. Forward | Argentina<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#20-virgil-van-dijk-liverpool-centre-back-netherlands\">20. Centre Back | Netherlands<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#19-federico-valverde-real-madrid-central-midfielder-uruguay\">19. Central Midfielder | Uruguay<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#18-nuno-mendes-paris-saint-germain-left-back-portugal\">18. Left Back | Portugal<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#17-joao-neves-paris-saint-germain-central-midfielder-portugal\">17. Central Midfielder | Portugal<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#16-achraf-hakimi-paris-saint-germain-right-back-morocco\">16. Right Back | Morocco<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#15-jamal-musiala-bayern-munich-attacking-midfielder-germany\">15. Attacking Midfielder | Germany<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#14-thibaut-courtois-real-madrid-goalkeeper-belgium\">14. Goalkeeper | Belgium<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#13-raphinha-fc-barcelona-right-winger-brazil\">13. Right Winger | Brazil<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#12-cristiano-ronaldo-al-nassr-forward-portugal\">12. Forward | Portugal<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#11-lionel-messi-inter-miami-forward-argentina\">11. Forward | Argentina<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#10-bruno-fernandes-manchester-united-attacking-midfielder-portugal\">10. Attacking Midfielder | Portugal<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#9-michael-olise-bayern-munich-right-winger-france\">9. Right Winger | France<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#8-erling-haaland-manchester-city-centre-forward-norway\">8. Centre Forward | Norway<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#7-pedri-fc-barcelona-central-midfielder-spain\">7. Central Midfielder | Spain<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#6-vitinha-paris-saint-germain-central-midfielder-portugal\">6. Central Midfielder | Portugal<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#5-vinicius-junior-real-madrid-left-winger-brazil\">5. Left Winger | Brazil<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#4-ousmane-dembele-paris-saint-germain-right-winger-france\">4. Right Winger | France<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#3-harry-kane-bayern-munich-centre-forward-england\">3. ???<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#2-kylian-mbappe-real-madrid-forward-france\">2. ???<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#1-lamine-yamal-fc-barcelona-right-winger-spain\">1. ???<\/a><\/li>\r\n<li class=\"\"><a href=\"#fa-qs\">FAQs<\/a><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<\/nav><\/div>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">\r\n<p dir=\"ltr\" lang=\"en\">Did you know?<br \/><br \/>The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature a record 48 teams competing across 104 matches. \ud83e\udd2f<br \/><br \/>More teams. More games. More drama.<br \/><br \/>The biggest World Cup ever is coming.\ud83c\udfc6 <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/BbCnCvzlAt\">pic.twitter.com\/BbCnCvzlAt<\/a><\/p>\r\n\u2014 365Scores (@365Scores) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/365Scores\/status\/2047711862041575920?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">April 24, 2026<\/a><\/blockquote>\r\n<p><script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 id=\"25-rayan-cherki-manchester-city-attacking-midfielder-france\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">25. Rayan Cherki | Manchester City | Attacking Midfielder | France<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>After illuminating Ligue 1 and the Europa League with Lyon, Cherki joined Manchester City in June 2025 for an initial fee of \u20ac36.5 million and was handed the number 10 shirt ahead of the new season. In the Premier League since, he has delivered four goals and 10 assists, showing the vision, dribbling and creative instinct that made him one of the most coveted young players in Europe. France&#8217;s attacking options are almost embarrassingly rich, but Cherki&#8217;s ability to unlock defences from tight areas in late stages of games could earn him a significant role in North America this summer.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" class=\"wp-image-15763\" src=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/rayan-cherki-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Manchester City's French midfielder #10 Rayan Cherki celebrates after scoring their second goal during the English Premier League football match between Nottingham Forest and Manchester City at The City Ground in Nottingham, central England, on December 27, 2025. \" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/rayan-cherki-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/rayan-cherki-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/rayan-cherki-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/rayan-cherki-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/02\/rayan-cherki-scaled.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\r\n<figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">(Photo by Ben STANSALL \/ AFP via Getty Images)<\/figcaption>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 id=\"24-desire-doue-paris-saint-germain-winger-france\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">24. Desire Doue | Paris Saint-Germain | Winger | France<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Doue is 20 years old, has already won the Champions League and the Golden Boy award, and scored the decisive penalty in PSG&#8217;s round-of-16 comeback against Liverpool last season. He was central to PSG&#8217;s historic continental treble in 2024-25 and has continued developing as one of the most dangerous young forwards in European football. His pace, directness and composure in pressure moments make him precisely the kind of player for whom major tournaments exist. France have extraordinary depth in attack and Doue has already proved he belongs in the company.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"671\" class=\"wp-image-14131\" src=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/GettyImages-2218007946-1024x671.jpg\" alt=\"MUNICH, GERMANY - MAY 31: Desire Doue of Paris Saint-Germain bites his Winners Medal after his team's victory, to secure Paris Saint-Germain's first ever UEFA Champions League title in the club's history and a record UEFA Champions League Final winning scoreline of 5-0, following the UEFA Champions League Final 2025 between Paris Saint-Germain and FC Internazionale Milano at Munich Football Arena on May 31, 2025 in Munich, Germany. \" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/GettyImages-2218007946-1024x671.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/GettyImages-2218007946-300x197.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/GettyImages-2218007946-768x503.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/GettyImages-2218007946-1536x1007.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/GettyImages-2218007946-scaled.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\r\n<figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">(Photo by Michael Regan &#8211; UEFA\/UEFA via Getty Images)<\/figcaption>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 id=\"23-declan-rice-arsenal-central-midfielder-england\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">23. Declan Rice | Arsenal | Central Midfielder | England<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Rice has been one of the standout performers in the Premier League this season as Arsenal push for their first league title since 2004. His evolution from a defensive midfielder into a player who can dictate tempo, press with sustained intensity and drive through the thirds with the ball has been one of English football&#8217;s most impressive recent developments. For England, his role is essential: Rice provides the discipline and athleticism that allows Bellingham to function further forward. A fit and firing Rice is England&#8217;s best version of themselves.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"718\" class=\"wp-image-17131\" src=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/GettyImages-2244026948-1024x718.jpg\" alt=\"Arsenal's Declan Rice celebrates in front of the fans following victory in the Premier League match at Turf Moor, Burnley. Picture date: Saturday November 1, 2025. \" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/GettyImages-2244026948-1024x718.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/GettyImages-2244026948-300x210.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/GettyImages-2244026948-768x539.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/GettyImages-2244026948-1536x1078.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/GettyImages-2244026948-scaled.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\r\n<figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">(Photo by Gary Oakley\/PA Images via Getty Images)<\/figcaption>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 id=\"22-jude-bellingham-real-madrid-attacking-midfielder-england\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">22. Jude Bellingham | Real Madrid | Attacking Midfielder | England<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Bellingham&#8217;s 2025-26 campaign has been more complex than his debut year at Real Madrid, as he has adapted to a changed role alongside Mbappe and managed the effects of a shoulder injury that limited him at points. He remains, however, a genuinely transformative player. The drive, box-to-box athleticism and technical intelligence that made him a sensation in his first season at the Bernabeu are undiminished. England&#8217;s best-case scenario is a Bellingham who arrives at the World Cup at full fitness. When that version turns up, he has the quality to be the tournament&#8217;s dominant individual.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" class=\"wp-image-4579\" src=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/GettyImages-1245651606-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"AL KHOR, QATAR - DECEMBER 10: Marcus Rashford of England, Jude Bellingham of England disappointed  during the  World Cup match between England  v France  at the Al Bayt Stadium on December 10, 2022 in Al Khor Qatar \" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/GettyImages-1245651606-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/GettyImages-1245651606-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/GettyImages-1245651606-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/GettyImages-1245651606-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/GettyImages-1245651606-scaled.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\r\n<figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">(Photo by David S. Bustamante\/Soccrates\/Getty Images)<\/figcaption>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 id=\"21-julian-alvarez-atletico-madrid-forward-argentina\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">21. Julian Alvarez | Atletico Madrid | Forward | Argentina<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Alvarez has contributed eight goals and four assists in La Liga this season, reinforcing his standing as a forward who delivers precisely what his team needs in any given moment. He was the heartbeat of Argentina&#8217;s 2022 World Cup triumph, scoring twice in the semi-final against Croatia and becoming the youngest player since Pele to score a World Cup semi-final brace at the age of 22. Now sharpened under Diego Simeone at Atletico Madrid, his pressing relentlessness and tactical intelligence have reached another level entirely.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">\r\n<p dir=\"ltr\" lang=\"en\">Julian Alvarez has reached 100 games with Atletico Madrid, scoring 46 goals and providing 16 assists. <br \/><br \/>How good of a signing was he? <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/NpyfwZPbsU\">pic.twitter.com\/NpyfwZPbsU<\/a><\/p>\r\n\u2014 365Scores (@365Scores) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/365Scores\/status\/2035249719086043582?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">March 21, 2026<\/a><\/blockquote>\r\n<p><script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 id=\"20-virgil-van-dijk-liverpool-centre-back-netherlands\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">20. Virgil van Dijk | Liverpool | Centre Back | Netherlands<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>At 34, Van Dijk remains one of the most commanding defenders in European football. His aerial dominance, composure in possession and leadership have anchored Liverpool&#8217;s title challenge throughout the season. For the Netherlands, he is the defensive bedrock without whom their tournament prospects look considerably shakier. International retirement has been raised in conversation, but if he arrives in North America, expect every opponent to study how best to navigate around his zone, and mostly fail to find a solution.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">\r\n<p dir=\"ltr\" lang=\"en\">\ud83c\udf89 Happy 34th Birthday to Virgil van Dijk! \ud83c\udf82\ud83d\udd34\ud83c\uddf3\ud83c\uddf1<br \/><br \/>A true defensive titan, Liverpool\u2019s captain has been a rock at the back and a leader on and off the pitch \ud83d\udcaa\ud83e\uddf1<br \/>Premier League, Champions League, and countless battles won \u2014 here\u2019s to a legend of the game \ud83c\udfc6\u2728 <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/dpsZilc4cD\">pic.twitter.com\/dpsZilc4cD<\/a><\/p>\r\n\u2014 365Scores (@365Scores) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/365Scores\/status\/1942607129422225541?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">July 8, 2025<\/a><\/blockquote>\r\n<p><script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 id=\"19-federico-valverde-real-madrid-central-midfielder-uruguay\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">19. Federico Valverde | Real Madrid | Central Midfielder | Uruguay<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Valverde delivered one of the individual highlights of this season&#8217;s Champions League when he scored a first-half hat-trick against Manchester City in Real Madrid&#8217;s 3-0 quarter-final first-leg win, becoming only the second player to achieve that feat against English opposition in the competition&#8217;s history after Lionel Messi. His athleticism, stamina and instinct for arriving late in the box make him one of the most difficult midfielders in the world to account for. Uruguay will lean heavily on him as both defensive anchor and goal threat this summer.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" class=\"wp-image-16954\" src=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/GettyImages-2265459572-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Federico Valverde central midfield of Real Madrid and Uruguay celebrates after scoring his sides first goal during the UEFA Champions League 2025\/26 Round of 16 First Leg match between Real Madrid CF and Manchester City FC at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu on March 11, 2026 in Madrid, Spain. \" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/GettyImages-2265459572-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/GettyImages-2265459572-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/GettyImages-2265459572-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/GettyImages-2265459572-1-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/GettyImages-2265459572-1-scaled.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\r\n<figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">(Photo by Jose Breton\/Pics Action\/NurPhoto via Getty Images)<\/figcaption>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 id=\"18-nuno-mendes-paris-saint-germain-left-back-portugal\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">18. Nuno Mendes | Paris Saint-Germain | Left Back | Portugal<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Nuno Mendes ranked in the Ballon d&#8217;Or top ten last year, and the 23-year-old has continued to merit that standing in 2025-26. Eight goal involvements across all competitions, a starring role in PSG&#8217;s 7-2 demolition of Bayer Leverkusen and a masterclass performance shutting down Lamine Yamal in PSG&#8217;s 2-1 win at Barcelona represent just a fraction of what he has produced this season. His blend of defensive solidity and attacking thrust give Portugal and PSG the same luxury: a full-back who can genuinely swing games.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">\r\n<p dir=\"ltr\" lang=\"en\">Our Best Player of 2025 countdown has reached the Top-10, and we start it off with yet another PSG player! The superb left-back, Nuno Mendes! <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/5MSNJpZeJF\">pic.twitter.com\/5MSNJpZeJF<\/a><\/p>\r\n\u2014 365Scores (@365Scores) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/365Scores\/status\/2003827692165272018?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">December 24, 2025<\/a><\/blockquote>\r\n<p><script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 id=\"17-joao-neves-paris-saint-germain-central-midfielder-portugal\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">17. Joao Neves | Paris Saint-Germain | Central Midfielder | Portugal<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>At just 21 years old, Joao Neves has already established himself as one of the most important players in what is arguably Europe&#8217;s best midfield. Alongside Vitinha and Fabian Ruiz at PSG, he provides the defensive cover and pressing intensity that allows his teammates creative freedom. His reading of the game, recovery speed and passing range suggest a player operating years ahead of his age. Portugal&#8217;s ability to go deep at the World Cup likely depends on whether their midfield functions, and Neves is central to that.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">\r\n<p dir=\"ltr\" lang=\"en\">We&#8217;re getting closer to the Top-10 in our Best Player of 2025 countdown and at number 12 is yet ANOTHER player representing PSG, Joao Neves! <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/hIPMjj6LJn\">pic.twitter.com\/hIPMjj6LJn<\/a><\/p>\r\n\u2014 365Scores (@365Scores) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/365Scores\/status\/2003094753118757040?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">December 22, 2025<\/a><\/blockquote>\r\n<p><script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 id=\"16-achraf-hakimi-paris-saint-germain-right-back-morocco\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">16. Achraf Hakimi | Paris Saint-Germain | Right Back | Morocco<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Hakimi is the most complete attacking full-back in world football. His Champions League assist tally this season puts him among the division&#8217;s creative elite, and his surging forward runs have unlocked defences across Europe all campaign. For Morocco, who sensationally reached the semi-finals of the 2022 World Cup, Hakimi represents the totemic leader of a footballing movement with serious momentum. His positional intelligence, pace and delivery are equally devastating on and off the ball.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" class=\"wp-image-18166\" src=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/GettyImages-2224404445-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - JULY 09: Vin\u00edcius J\u00fanior of Real Madrid competes for the ball with Achraf Hakimi #2 of Paris Saint-Germain during the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 semi-final match between Paris Saint-Germain and Real Madrid CF at MetLife Stadium on July 09, 2025 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. \" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/GettyImages-2224404445-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/GettyImages-2224404445-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/GettyImages-2224404445-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/GettyImages-2224404445-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/GettyImages-2224404445-scaled.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\r\n<figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">((Photo by David Ramos\/Getty Images)<\/figcaption>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 id=\"15-jamal-musiala-bayern-munich-attacking-midfielder-germany\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">15. Jamal Musiala | Bayern Munich | Attacking Midfielder | Germany<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>A fractured fibula and broken ankle sustained during the Club World Cup last July looked as though they might cost Musiala the entire campaign. Instead, he returned to produce seven goal involvements in just 12 appearances, including six in his last five games before Bayern&#8217;s semi-final. Germany&#8217;s most creative player, his close-control dribbling through congested spaces and instinct for goal are qualities no other German international currently possesses. The 2026 World Cup could be the tournament that defines the generation he leads.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"795\" height=\"1024\" class=\"wp-image-5389\" src=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/GettyImages-2062653161-795x1024.jpg\" alt=\"MUNICH, GERMANY - MARCH 05: Jamal Musiala of FC Bayern Muenchen gestures during the UEFA Champions League 2023\/24 round of 16 second leg match between FC Bayern M\u00fcnchen and SS Lazio at Allianz Arena on March 05, 2024 in Munich, Germany. \" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/GettyImages-2062653161-795x1024.jpg 795w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/GettyImages-2062653161-233x300.jpg 233w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/GettyImages-2062653161-768x990.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/GettyImages-2062653161-1192x1536.jpg 1192w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/04\/GettyImages-2062653161-scaled.jpg 1589w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 795px) 100vw, 795px\" \/>\r\n<figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">(Photo by Boris Streubel\/Getty Images)<\/figcaption>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 id=\"14-thibaut-courtois-real-madrid-goalkeeper-belgium\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">14. Thibaut Courtois | Real Madrid | Goalkeeper | Belgium<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Courtois has been outstanding this season: 15 clean sheets, 120 saves and recognition from IFFHS as the world&#8217;s best goalkeeper. His nine saves in the 2022 Champions League final against Liverpool remain a competition record since Opta began keeping data, and his continued excellence in big knockout moments is unmatched among top goalkeepers. A quadriceps injury saw him miss Real Madrid&#8217;s Champions League quarter-final against Bayern, but he will arrive at the World Cup as the best goalkeeper in the competition.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"659\" class=\"wp-image-4162\" src=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1246581744-1024x659.jpg\" alt=\"Thibaut Courtois of Real Madrid  during the Copa del Rey match between Real Madrid and Atletico de Madrid at Estadio Santiago Bernabeu in Madrid, Spain. \" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1246581744-1024x659.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1246581744-300x193.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1246581744-768x494.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1246581744-1536x989.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/09\/GettyImages-1246581744-scaled.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\r\n<figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">(Photo by DAX Images\/NurPhoto via Getty Images)<\/figcaption>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 id=\"13-raphinha-fc-barcelona-right-winger-brazil\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">13. Raphinha | FC Barcelona | Right Winger | Brazil<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>After a difficult early period at Barcelona, Raphinha has completely reinvented himself as one of European football&#8217;s most dangerous forwards. He was a driving force in Barcelona&#8217;s record-breaking 102-goal La Liga campaign of 2024-25 and has maintained his level into 2025-26. His directness, delivery quality and willingness to commit in the final third make him a constant problem for defenders at every level. Brazil have an abundance of attacking options, but Raphinha&#8217;s experience and current form make him irreplaceable.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" class=\"wp-image-17472\" src=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/GettyImages-2266699816-1-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Barcelona's Brazilian forward #11 Raphinha celebrates his team's seventh goal during the UEFA Champions League last 16 second leg football match between FC Barcelona and Newcastle United at the Camp Nou stadium in Barcelona, on March 18, 2026. \" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/GettyImages-2266699816-1-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/GettyImages-2266699816-1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/GettyImages-2266699816-1-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/GettyImages-2266699816-1-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/GettyImages-2266699816-1-scaled.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\r\n<figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">(Photo by Lluis GENE \/ AFP via Getty Images)<\/figcaption>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 id=\"12-cristiano-ronaldo-al-nassr-forward-portugal\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">12. Cristiano Ronaldo | Al-Nassr | Forward | Portugal<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/en-us\/football\/player\/cristiano-ronaldo-817\">Ronaldo<\/a> will be 41 by the time the World Cup concludes. Playing in the Saudi Pro League, his inclusion in Portugal&#8217;s squad would be as much a statement of intent as a purely tactical decision. He has continued to score freely in Saudi Arabia, his appetite for football undiminished. For opponents, the psychological weight of planning for Ronaldo still carries genuine meaning. Whether Roberto Martinez selects him remains football&#8217;s most intriguing pre-tournament debate.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">\r\n<p dir=\"ltr\" lang=\"en\">\u23f3 51 DAYS UNTIL THE WORLD CUP. \ud83c\udf0d<br \/><br \/>In 2018, Cristiano Ronaldo scored the 51st hat-trick in World Cup history \u2014 for Portugal against Spain.<br \/><br \/>That same hat-trick was also his 51st for club and country.<br \/><br \/>Numbers don&#8217;t lie. Some things are just written. \u270d\ufe0f\ud83d\udc10 <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/3rOEMhamQw\">pic.twitter.com\/3rOEMhamQw<\/a><\/p>\r\n\u2014 365Scores (@365Scores) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/365Scores\/status\/2046644801001443548?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">April 21, 2026<\/a><\/blockquote>\r\n<p><script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 id=\"11-lionel-messi-inter-miami-forward-argentina\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">11. Lionel Messi | Inter Miami | Forward | Argentina<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>At 38 years old and playing in MLS, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/en-us\/football\/player\/lionel-messi-874\">Messi&#8217;s<\/a> inclusion in any World Cup conversation is as much about legacy and aura as it is about pure output. He arrives as a reigning World Cup champion and the greatest player the game has produced, the figure around whom Argentina has organised its entire footballing identity for almost two decades. Whether he can sustain the physical demands of a summer tournament in North American heat is the only real question. The motivation, however, has never been in doubt.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" class=\"wp-image-13834\" src=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/GettyImages-1245711384-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/GettyImages-1245711384-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/GettyImages-1245711384-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/GettyImages-1245711384-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/GettyImages-1245711384-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/GettyImages-1245711384-scaled.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\r\n<figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">(Photo by Tnani Badreddine\/Defodi Images via Getty Images)<\/figcaption>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 id=\"10-bruno-fernandes-manchester-united-attacking-midfielder-portugal\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">10. Bruno Fernandes | Manchester United | Attacking Midfielder | Portugal<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Portugal&#8217;s most consistent creative force at club level, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/en-us\/football\/player\/bruno-fernandes-6262\">Fernandes<\/a> delivered 18 goal contributions across 36 appearances last season and has remained United&#8217;s most influential attacking player in 2025-26, on track to break the single-season Premier League assist record. His chance creation, set-piece delivery and eye for goal from distance are among the best in the Premier League regardless of team context. For a Portugal side with genuine quality across the pitch, Fernandes in peak form could be the difference between a solid knockout exit and a genuine run deep into the World Cup.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" class=\"wp-image-18167\" src=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/bruno-fernandes-portugal-2-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"PORTO, PORTUGAL - NOVEMBER 16:  Bruno Fernandes of Portugal celebrates with Goncalo Ramos after scoring his team's sixth goal during the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier match between Portugal and Armenia at Estadio do Dragao on November 16, 2025 in Porto, Portugal. \" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/bruno-fernandes-portugal-2-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/bruno-fernandes-portugal-2-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/bruno-fernandes-portugal-2-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/bruno-fernandes-portugal-2-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/bruno-fernandes-portugal-2-scaled.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\r\n<figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">(Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey\/Getty Images)<\/figcaption>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 id=\"9-michael-olise-bayern-munich-right-winger-france\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. Michael Olise | Bayern Munich | Right Winger | France<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Olise has been one of the revelations of European football in 2025-26. He sits joint-top for Champions League assists, has broken the French record with 25 assists for Bayern across all competitions and scored eight Champions League goals himself. His combination play with Harry Kane has been one of the most potent attacking partnerships in the tournament, and at 23 he is only now reaching what looks like an extraordinary ceiling. A World Cup with France&#8217;s depth of talent around him could be the moment he crosses from emerging star to undeniable superstar.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">\r\n<p dir=\"ltr\" lang=\"en\">Harry Kane has named Bayern teammate Michael Olise as the best winger on the planet right now! \ud83d\udc8e\ud83d\udd25<br \/><br \/>The duo has been unstoppable this season, but is Olise truly clear of the rest? \ud83d\udcc8\ud83d\udd34<br \/><br \/>Better than Vin\u00edcius or Lamine? \ud83d\udc47\ud83c\udfdf\ufe0f <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/SDzHEtxCt3\">pic.twitter.com\/SDzHEtxCt3<\/a><\/p>\r\n\u2014 365Scores (@365Scores) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/365Scores\/status\/2045124767200444443?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">April 17, 2026<\/a><\/blockquote>\r\n<p><script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 id=\"8-erling-haaland-manchester-city-centre-forward-norway\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Erling Haaland | Manchester City | Centre Forward | Norway<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Haaland became the fastest player in Champions League history to reach 50 goals in the competition, reaching the mark against Napoli in just 49 games. A hat-trick against Liverpool in the FA Cup and a Carabao Cup medal have punctuated a campaign where his output has been more inconsistent than in previous seasons, partly due to injury disruption. The enduring question for Norway at any major tournament is whether Haaland can translate his club-level dominance to international football. If he does, defences have no answer.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" class=\"wp-image-17084\" src=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/haaland-noruega-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"OSLO, NORWAY - NOVEMBER 17: Erling Haaland of Norway during the UEFA Nations League 2024\/25 League B Group B3 match between Norway and Kazakhstan at Ullevaal Stadion on November 17, 2024 in Oslo, Norway.\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/haaland-noruega-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/haaland-noruega-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/haaland-noruega-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/haaland-noruega-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/haaland-noruega-scaled.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\r\n<figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">(Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt &#8211; AMA\/Getty Images)<\/figcaption>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 id=\"7-pedri-fc-barcelona-central-midfielder-spain\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Pedri | FC Barcelona | Central Midfielder | Spain<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Injuries have tested Pedri&#8217;s resilience over recent campaigns, but under Hansi Flick at Barcelona he has rediscovered his best form. He leads La Liga midfielders for passes completed, ranks first for balls played into the final third and sits second for take-ons, remarkable output for a player operating in a deeper role. His spatial awareness and ability to glide through packed midfields remain unique in world football. Spain have extraordinary depth in the middle of the park, and Pedri gives them a creative dimension others simply cannot replicate.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" class=\"wp-image-14871\" src=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/GettyImages-2212136809-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"SEVILLE, SPAIN - APRIL 26: Pedro Gonzalez 'Pedri' of FC Barcelona celebrates after scoring their side's first goal during the Copa Del Rey Final match between FC Barcelona and Real Madrid at Estadio de La Cartuja on April 26, 2025 in Seville, Spain. \" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/GettyImages-2212136809-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/GettyImages-2212136809-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/GettyImages-2212136809-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/GettyImages-2212136809-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/GettyImages-2212136809-scaled.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\r\n<figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">(Photo by Quality Sport Images\/Getty Images)<\/figcaption>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 id=\"6-vitinha-paris-saint-germain-central-midfielder-portugal\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Vitinha | Paris Saint-Germain | Central Midfielder | Portugal<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Vitinha is one of the most underappreciated players at any elite European club. He leads all Ligue 1 midfielders for successful passes this season with 2,306 completed, ranks first for chances created and tops the expected threat chart for players in his position. He even scored a Champions League hat-trick against Tottenham in November. The engine room of PSG&#8217;s title-winning machine, his combination of tempo control, pressing intensity and creativity makes him the quiet architect of everything PSG build in 2025-26.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image aligncenter size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"683\" height=\"1024\" class=\"wp-image-14870\" src=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/GettyImages-2187048391-683x1024.jpg\" alt=\"MUNICH, GERMANY - NOVEMBER 26: Vitinha of Paris Saint-Germain in action during the UEFA Champions League 2024\/25 League Phase MD5 match between FC Bayern M\u00fcnchen and Paris Saint-Germain at Football Arena Munich on November 26, 2024 in Munich, Germany. \" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/GettyImages-2187048391-683x1024.jpg 683w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/GettyImages-2187048391-200x300.jpg 200w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/GettyImages-2187048391-768x1152.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/GettyImages-2187048391-1024x1536.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/GettyImages-2187048391-scaled.jpg 1365w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 683px) 100vw, 683px\" \/>\r\n<figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">(Photo by Daniel Kopatsch\/Getty Images)<\/figcaption>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 id=\"5-vinicius-junior-real-madrid-left-winger-brazil\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Vinicius Junior | Real Madrid | Left Winger | Brazil<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Despite Real Madrid&#8217;s quarter-final Champions League exit, Vinicius has produced another outstanding European campaign, scoring in both legs of their round-of-16 win over Benfica and sitting joint-top for assists in the competition alongside Michael Olise and Achraf Hakimi. At his best, he is the most dangerous dribbler in world football, capable of creating something out of nothing in moments when a game is seemingly locked. Brazil&#8217;s World Cup ambitions are built around him.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">\r\n<p dir=\"ltr\" lang=\"und\">\ud83c\udde7\ud83c\uddf7 VIN\u00cdCIUS JR LEADS THE BRAZILIAN UCL KNOCKOUT ELITE! \ud83d\udc51<br \/><br \/>Most goals in UCL knockout stages among Brazilians:<br \/><br \/>\ud83e\udd47 Vin\u00edcius Jr \u2014 16<br \/>\ud83e\udd48 Neymar \u2014 13<br \/>\ud83e\udd49 Kak\u00e1 \u2014 11<br \/>4\ufe0f\u20e3 Roberto Firmino \u2014 10<br \/>5\ufe0f\u20e3 Raphinha \u2014 9 \u2b06\ufe0f<br \/>6\ufe0f\u20e3 Rodrygo \u2014 8<br \/><br \/>The new generation is taking over. \ud83d\udd25 <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/ukjXYWr9PE\">pic.twitter.com\/ukjXYWr9PE<\/a><\/p>\r\n\u2014 365Scores (@365Scores) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/365Scores\/status\/2034328365855891872?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">March 18, 2026<\/a><\/blockquote>\r\n<p><script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 id=\"4-ousmane-dembele-paris-saint-germain-right-winger-france\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Ousmane Dembele | Paris Saint-Germain | Right Winger | France<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/en-us\/football\/player\/ousmane-dembele-39779\">Dembele&#8217;s<\/a> transformation from mercurial wide forward to complete attacking weapon is one of European football&#8217;s great recent stories. Last season he scored 35 goals and provided 12 assists across all competitions as PSG claimed a historic continental treble, including their first-ever Champions League title. He has carried that form into 2025-26 and was central to PSG&#8217;s 4-0 aggregate demolition of Liverpool in the Champions League quarter-finals. His pressing, directness and clinical finishing make him one of the most fully-formed attacking players in the world.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" class=\"wp-image-17431\" src=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/GettyImages-2268477513-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"(L-R) France's defender #15 Ibrahima Konate, midfielder #08 Aurelien Tchouameni, forward #07 Ousmane Dembele, forward #10 Kylian Mbappe and midfielder #06 Eduardo Camavinga share a moment in the bench during a friendly football match between Colombia and France at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland, on March 29, 2026. \" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/GettyImages-2268477513-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/GettyImages-2268477513-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/GettyImages-2268477513-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/GettyImages-2268477513-1536x1025.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/GettyImages-2268477513-scaled.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\r\n<figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">(Photo by FRANCK FIFE \/ AFP via Getty Images)<\/figcaption>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 id=\"3-harry-kane-bayern-munich-centre-forward-england\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Harry Kane | Bayern Munich | Centre Forward | England<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>This is <a href=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/en-us\/football\/player\/harry-kane-1669\">Kane&#8217;s<\/a> season. He has averaged a goal every 66 minutes in the Bundesliga, racked up over 31 league goals and reached 12 in the Champions League, becoming the first Englishman in history to score 50 career goals in European competition. Bayern have already secured the Bundesliga title with Kane as the undisputed focal point of everything they do, and the club are now in the Champions League semi-finals. Kane arrives at the World Cup as a complete centre-forward operating at his absolute peak. England fans have been waiting for exactly this.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" class=\"wp-image-17687\" src=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/GettyImages-1245518787-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"England's forward #09 Harry Kane celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the Qatar 2022 World Cup quarter-final football match between England and France at the Al-Bayt Stadium in Al Khor, north of Doha, on December 10, 2022. (Photo by Paul ELLIS \/ AFP) \" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/GettyImages-1245518787-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/GettyImages-1245518787-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/GettyImages-1245518787-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/GettyImages-1245518787-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/GettyImages-1245518787-scaled.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\r\n<figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">(Photo by PAUL ELLIS\/AFP via Getty Images)<\/figcaption>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 id=\"2-kylian-mbappe-real-madrid-forward-france\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Kylian Mbappe | Real Madrid | Forward | France<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/en-us\/football\/player\/kylian-mbappe-39820\">Mbappe<\/a> has been the Champions League&#8217;s top scorer this season with 15 goals in just 11 appearances, including two hat-tricks, while maintaining a near-1:1 ratio in La Liga with 24 goals in 28 outings. He also holds the highest expected assists total in Spain, meaning his influence extends well beyond raw goal tallies. Injuries have disrupted his campaign and Real Madrid were eliminated in the quarter-finals by Bayern, but when Mbappe is fit and available, France become one of the most frightening propositions in world football.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" class=\"wp-image-17643\" src=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/mbappe-franca-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"PARIS, FRANCE - SEPTEMBER 09: Captain, Kylian Mbappe #10 of Team France pose before the FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifier -Group H match between France and Iceland at Parc des Princes on September 09, 2025 in Paris, France. \" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/mbappe-franca-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/mbappe-franca-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/mbappe-franca-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/mbappe-franca-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/mbappe-franca-scaled.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/>\r\n<figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">(Photo by Xavier Laine\/Getty Images)<\/figcaption>\r\n<\/figure>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 id=\"1-lamine-yamal-fc-barcelona-right-winger-spain\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Lamine Yamal | FC Barcelona | Right Winger | Spain<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>He will turn 19 during the knockout rounds of this summer&#8217;s tournament. That single sentence tells you something truly remarkable is happening. <a href=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/en-us\/football\/player\/lamine-yamal-131182\">Yamal<\/a> has been the most electrifying attacker in La Liga this season, recording 16 goals, leading the division in take-ons and generating over 80 shot-creating actions, a figure only Mbappe has bettered across Europe&#8217;s five major leagues. His ability to come inside onto his left foot or drive past defenders on the outside makes him essentially undefendable in one-on-one situations. With Spain arriving as reigning European champions, Yamal is the player their World Cup dream is constructed around.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<blockquote class=\"twitter-tweet\">\r\n<p dir=\"ltr\" lang=\"en\">\ud83d\udea8 BREAKING NEWS \ud83d\udea8<br \/><br \/>Lamine Yamal is officially out of El Cl\u00e1sico and will miss the remainder of the season \u203c\ufe0f<br \/><br \/>He is expected to be fit for the World Cup \ud83c\udfc6 <a href=\"https:\/\/t.co\/xbTJ957eG6\">pic.twitter.com\/xbTJ957eG6<\/a><\/p>\r\n\u2014 365Scores (@365Scores) <a href=\"https:\/\/twitter.com\/365Scores\/status\/2047289460492992810?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">April 23, 2026<\/a><\/blockquote>\r\n<p><script async src=\"https:\/\/platform.twitter.com\/widgets.js\" charset=\"utf-8\"><\/script><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\r\n\r\n\r\n<h3 id=\"fa-qs\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">FAQs<\/h3>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p><strong>When does the 2026 FIFA World Cup start?<\/strong><br \/>The 2026 FIFA World Cup begins on 11 June 2026, with the final scheduled for 19 July. The tournament is hosted across 16 cities in the United States, Canada and Mexico.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p><strong>How many teams are at the 2026 World Cup?<\/strong><br \/>For the first time, 48 national teams will compete at the World Cup, expanded from the previous 32-team format.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Which country is the favourite for the 2026 World Cup?<\/strong><br \/>France, with their extraordinary depth of attacking talent including Mbappe, Dembele, Olise, Doue and Cherki, are widely regarded among the favourites. Spain, England and Argentina are also considered serious contenders.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Is Lionel Messi playing at the 2026 World Cup?<\/strong><br \/>Messi has not officially confirmed or withdrawn from Argentina&#8217;s World Cup plans. At 38, his involvement would depend on fitness and national team selection closer to the tournament.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Is Cristiano Ronaldo playing at the 2026 World Cup?<\/strong><br \/>Ronaldo has continued to express his desire to play at the highest level. His inclusion in Portugal&#8217;s squad remains subject to Roberto Martinez&#8217;s final decision ahead of the tournament.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Who is the youngest player in this World Cup draft?<\/strong><br \/>Lamine Yamal, who turns 19 on 13 July 2026 during the tournament&#8217;s knockout phase, is the youngest player featured.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p><strong>Which club has the most representatives in this World Cup draft?<\/strong><br \/>Paris Saint-Germain lead the way with five players: Vitinha, Hakimi, Joao Neves, Nuno Mendes and Desire Doue, reflecting the depth of their squad across international lines.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\" \/>\r\n\r\n\r\n<p><em>By Nicky Helfgott &#8211; <\/em><a href=\"https:\/\/x.com\/NickyHelfgott1\"><em>NickyHelfgott1 on X (Twitter<\/em>)<\/a><\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>Keep up with all the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\">latest football news<\/a> and<a href=\"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/en-us\/football\/league\/premier-league-7\/news\"> Premier League news<\/a> on 365Scores!<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\r\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The 2026 FIFA World Cup, spread across 16 cities in the United States, Canada and Mexico, is fast approaching. With 48 nations competing for the first time in history, the expanded format promises more football, more drama and more opportunities for the sport&#8217;s finest players to leave their mark. We have assembled 25 names who &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":29,"featured_media":18214,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[4286,5239],"tags":[2929,26,1163,2254,190,309,587,586,188,1287,159,2094,316,823,3844,969,2029,2248,3483,5091],"class_list":["post-18153","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-2026-world-cup","category-the-playbook","tag-2026-fifa-world-cup","tag-cristiano-ronaldo","tag-declan-rice","tag-desire-doue","tag-erling-haaland","tag-harry-kane","tag-jamal-musiala","tag-jude-bellingham","tag-kylian-mbappe","tag-lamine-yamal","tag-lionel-messi","tag-michael-olise","tag-ousmane-dembele","tag-pedri","tag-rayan-cherki","tag-thibaut-courtois","tag-vinicius-jr","tag-virgil-van-dijk","tag-vitinha","tag-world-cup-draft","article_type-discover","article_type-news","entity_type-competition","inspiration-365s-articles"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18153","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/29"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=18153"}],"version-history":[{"count":5,"href":"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18153\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":18215,"href":"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/18153\/revisions\/18215"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/18214"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=18153"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=18153"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.365scores.com\/news\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=18153"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}