World Cup 2026: Five young stars set to light up this summer | OneFootball

The World Cup has always been the stage where football’s next generation arrives.

Established stars will grab the early headlines, as they always do. Yet a cluster of gifted teenagers and prodigies is ready to steal the show.

Here are five players aged 21 or under primed for the spotlight.

Five young talents set to light up the World Cup

Nico Paz (Argentina)

The 21-year-old enters the tournament as a creative jewel of Argentina’s evolving squad. He enjoyed a superb season at Como, scoring 12 goals with six assists in Serie A.

That form earned the trust of Lionel Scaloni, who lists him as a forward. His gift for gliding past defenders and threading killer passes makes him a natural spark.

One note of caution lingers, though, as he has been managing a knee problem in the build-up.

Yan Diomande (Ivory Coast)

Diomande has risen fast in Germany with RB Leipzig. The explosive 19-year-old winger scored 13 goals and added 10 assists across all competitions.

His acceleration and direct running terrify full-backs and stretch defences. He brings a fearless, unpredictable edge to the Ivorian attack.

A strong tournament could yet decide a busy summer transfer saga around him.

Nico O’Reilly (England)

Few players enjoyed a breakthrough quite like the Manchester City graduate. He racked up nine goals and six assists in a standout campaign under Pep Guardiola.

City supporters voted him their player of the season. Thomas Tuchel has since named him in England’s squad, where he is tipped to start at left-back.

His versatility, comfortable in midfield or defence, gives Tuchel a useful tactical option.

Luka Vušković (Croatia)

Standing at 1.93m, the 19-year-old centre-back is the future of Croatia’s defence. He impressed on loan at Hamburg, earning rave reviews and proving a genuine set-piece threat.

His blend of physical dominance and composure on the ball belies his age. Zlatko Dalić is expected to use him in a back three.

Gilberto Mora (Mexico)

At just 17, Mora is the youngest player at the tournament and a genuine prodigy. The Club Tijuana midfielder once became the youngest scorer in Mexican league history.

He already has senior international experience and plays with fearless maturity. His vision, artistry and feel for tempo make him box-office for the co-hosts. For many neutrals, he will be the name to watch.

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