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WC Countdown: They are already stars, but they are debutants at the World Cup

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We bring you a list of the most famous players who will be playing for the first time at the global showcase of the world’s best national teams

The 2026 World Cup promises much more than a battle between football's traditional giants. Hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, the tournament is set to introduce a new generation of stars to the grandest stage in the sport. With iconic figures such as Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Luka Modric, and Neymar approaching the twilight of their careers, a fresh wave of talent is preparing to seize the spotlight.

Several of these players arrive after outstanding campaigns at club level and will be expected to shoulder major responsibilities for their national teams. For some, the World Cup represents an opportunity to cement their status among football's elite. For others, it is a chance to inspire their countries to unforgettable achievements.

Debutants with their stars and squads ready to show all the potential at the World Cup (©Getty images)

WC Countdown: Can you find them on a map? Debutants ready to stun the world

Desire Doue - France's latest sensation

Desire Doue's rise has been impossible to ignore. The dynamic French playmaker enjoyed a breakthrough season that established him among the most exciting young talents in Europe. Blessed with pace, flair, and the confidence to influence big matches, he has quickly become one of the brightest prospects in the game.

Still only 20 years old, Doue will enter the World Cup carrying the hopes of a nation renowned for producing elite talent. Alongside established stars such as Kylian Mbappe and Ousmane Dembele, he represents the future of the French national team and could emerge as one of the tournament's breakout performers.

Luis Diaz - Colombia's driving force

Luis Diaz has spent years proving himself among football's top wingers, and his move to Bayern Munich elevated his profile even further. After making a name for himself in England, the Colombian took another major step in his career by joining one of Europe's most prestigious clubs.

Now he is set for his first World Cup appearance. Colombia's absence from Qatar 2022 only heightened anticipation for their return, and Diaz will be expected to lead the team's attacking ambitions. If Colombia are to challenge the tournament's heavyweights, much will depend on their explosive forward.

Florian Wirtz - Germany's creative engine

Few young players command as much admiration as Florian Wirtz. The gifted German midfielder has continued to impress with his vision, intelligence, and ability to dictate matches at the highest level.

At 23, he already stands at the heart of Germany's project to restore itself among international football's elite. After a series of disappointing major tournaments, the Germans are searching for a new leader, and Wirtz appears perfectly positioned to take on that responsibility.

Erling Haaland - Norway's long-awaited World Cup star

For years, football fans have wondered what Erling Haaland might look like on the World Cup stage. In 2026, they will finally get their answer.

The prolific striker arrives after rewriting scoring records throughout his club career, but international football presents a very different challenge. Norway are not among the traditional favorites, meaning Haaland will carry the burden of inspiring a nation eager to make the most of its return to the global spotlight.

Michael Olise - France's newest attacking threat

France's remarkable production line of talent has delivered another gem in Michael Olise. The winger's technical brilliance and creativity have made him one of Europe's most entertaining players, capable of unlocking even the most stubborn defenses.

The challenge for Olise will be establishing himself within a squad packed with world-class options. Competition for places will be fierce, but his talent gives him every chance of becoming a key figure for Les Bleus during the tournament.

Lamine Yamal - The teenager captivating the football world

No young player enters the 2026 World Cup with greater expectations than Lamine Yamal. The Barcelona prodigy has already developed into one of the most influential players in world football despite still being in his teens.

By the time the tournament begins, Yamal will already be considered one of Spain's central figures and one of the competition's biggest attractions. The spotlight will be intense, but so is his talent. If Spain are to reclaim the trophy for the first time since 2010, the teenager could play a decisive role in their pursuit of glory.

Kenan Yildiz - Turkey's rising jewel shaping a new generation

The last time Turkey appeared at a World Cup, Kenan Yildiz had not yet been born. Now, more than two decades later, he stands as one of the leading figures of a new generation carrying huge expectations into their return to football’s biggest stage.

Comfortable both as an attacking midfielder and on the wing, his creativity and technical quality make him one of Europe’s most exciting young attacking talents. Often mentioned alongside Arda Guer, he now has the chance to step out of the shadow and become a central figure for Turkey.

Nico Paz - The heir to Argentina's creative legacy

While Lionel Messi remains the defining figure of Argentine football, Nico Paz is increasingly viewed as one of the players who could shape its future. The young midfielder enjoyed a standout season in Italy, becoming a key force behind Como’s remarkable rise.

At just 21, he already displays impressive maturity, contributing consistently with both goals and assists. His ability to dictate tempo while also making decisive contributions in the final third marks him out as a complete attacking midfielder.

Nico O'Reilly - England's all-purpose engine for the future

Nico O’Reilly’s development at Manchester City has been one of the most encouraging stories of the season. The young Englishman earned Pep Guardiola’s trust by showing he can perform at a high level in multiple roles.

His biggest strength is versatility — equally effective as a left-back or an advanced midfielder, he has adapted seamlessly whenever called upon. Across a demanding season, he contributed significantly in both goals and assists.

With more than 50 appearances in all competitions, O’Reilly has emerged as one of England’s most promising young talents and a potential key asset for future international tournaments.

Lennart Karl - Germany's emerging attacking hope

Lennart Karl represents the latest wave of talent coming through Bayern Munich and Germany’s youth system. After progressing through the national youth ranks, he earned his senior recognition following a breakthrough club season.

In his debut campaign in Munich, he impressed with creativity, vision, and a natural instinct for goal contributions. Despite not being physically imposing, he compensates with sharp technical ability, agility, and intelligent movement.