Top 10 Young Stars to Watch at the 2026 World Cup, From Lamine Yamal to Yan Diomande
1. Lamine Yamal, Forward, Spain
Age: 18Club: BarcelonaInternational Caps: 25
Leading this list of rising stars is Lamine Yamal, Spain's brightest young talent. Though one of the youngest players in the tournament, he already ranks among the top performers. This season, Yamal scored 24 goals and assisted 17 times in 45 appearances for Barcelona. His skill and maturity on the pitch go beyond statistics, promising thrilling moments for fans as he takes on his first World Cup.
2. Joao Neves, Central Midfielder, Portugal
Age: 21Club: Paris Saint-GermainInternational Caps: 21
At number two is Joao Neves, a key figure behind PSG’s success this season, including back-to-back Champions League titles. Completing over 91% of his passes, Neves quietly supports stars like Cristiano Ronaldo and Bruno Fernandes, standing out among Portugal’s young talents despite his age.
3. Desire Doue, Forward, France
Age: 21Club: Paris Saint-GermainInternational Caps: 7
Desire Doue rounds out the podium. With just seven caps, he’s poised for a long international career. Doue has shown he can dominate games during friendlies, notably scoring twice against Colombia. While stars like Mbappe grab headlines, Doue is steadily making his mark within France’s national team.
4. Arda Guler, Attacking Midfielder, Turkey
Age: 21Club: Real MadridInternational Caps: 30
Arda Guler has the most international experience among these young players. Touted as one of Real Madrid’s brightest prospects, he doubled his assists this season with 16 across all competitions. For Turkey, he plays a crucial role in controlling play and setting up teammates like Kenan Yildiz.
5. Pau Cubarsi, Center Back, Spain
Age: 19Club: BarcelonaInternational Caps: 12
Defensive talent Pau Cubarsi will showcase his composure and ball skills on football’s biggest stage. With over 3,000 touches this season, he anchors Spain’s backline and supports attacking teammates like Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams in a possession-based system that’s evolved from classic tiki-taka.
6. Nico O'Reilly, Left Back, England
Age: 21Club: Manchester CityInternational Caps: 4
Nico O'Reilly, named Premier League Young Player of the Year in 2026, offers versatility beyond defense. His value doubled this season thanks to strong performances that hint at a midfield role. England might find him a difference-maker running down the flanks during the tournament.
7. Nico Paz, Attacking Midfielder, Argentina
Age: 21Club: Como (on loan from Real Madrid)International Caps: 9
Nico Paz helped Como reach the Champions League for the first time in their history with 13 goals and 7 assists. While Messi remains Argentina’s star, Paz could be the surprise factor four years after their 2022 triumph.
8. Kenan Yildiz, Forward, Turkey
Age: 21Club: JuventusInternational Caps: 28
Despite Juventus’ tough season, Kenan Yildiz stood out with 10 goals and six assists, ranking among Serie A’s best. Alongside Guler, they form Turkey’s strongest youthful attack in history, promising an exciting future.
9. Warren Zaire-Emery, Central Midfielder, France
Age: 20Club: Paris Saint-GermainInternational Caps: 11
Warren Zaire-Emery may not always play full matches, but his control and energy add depth to France’s squad aiming for a third consecutive World Cup final. His influence lies more in possession and balance than flashy stats.
10. Yan Diomande, Forward, Ivory Coast
Age: 19Club: RB LeipzigInternational Caps: 10
Yan Diomande dazzles with speed, recorded at 22.56 mph in January, second fastest in the Bundesliga then. He delivered 13 goals and nine assists this season, ranking near the top for Leipzig. His pace and skill will challenge defenders throughout the tournament.
