Mora, Manzambi, Bajraktarevic among five youngsters who could break out at World Cup 2026 | OneFootball

Every World Cup throws up little-known talents who use the biggest stage to change their trajectory. Ahead of 2026, here are five aged 21 or under who could emerge.

L'Équipe highlights these prospects while steering clear of headline names such as Endrick or Ibrahim Maza. Past editions launched Mesut Özil in 2010, James Rodriguez in 2014 and Enzo Fernandez in 2022.

Luka Vuskovic, 19, the Croatian centre-back on loan at Hamburg from Tottenham, blends power with refined technique.

Johan Manzambi, the Swiss midfielder at Fribourg, is versatile across positions and was a revelation in the most recent Europa League.

Esmir Bajraktarevic, a Bosnian winger for PSV Eindhoven, was born and developed in the United States before choosing Bosnia and Herzegovina, and he has already made decisive contributions for them.

Gilberto Mora, 17, carries part of Mexico’s hopes as co-hosts, having already featured at the U20 World Cup in Chile in late 2025.

Bazoumana Touré, the Ivorian winger at Hoffenheim, offers an explosive mix of speed, direct running and creativity.

Five names still largely under the radar, and they could soon be anything but.

Source: L'Équipe