World Cup 2026 showcase: the gems hoping to follow Lamine Yamal | OneFootball

The biggest World Cup begins today, Thursday 11 June 2026, as Mexico meet South Africa in a reprise of 2010. Mexico co-hosts with the United States and Canada. El Periódico Mediterráneo flags teenagers to watch.

Beyond Lamine Yamal, Pau Cubarsí, Endrick, Désiré Doué, João Neves, Nico Paz and Rayan Cherki, several emerging names could break through.

Mexico’s Gilberto Mora is the youngest participant. At 16 years and 265 days he became the youngest to win a major international title, last summer’s Gold Cup. Liga MX’s youngest scorer, he has 10 goals and two assists for Xolos.

Morocco’s Bilal El Khannous headlines a rich crop with Ayoubb Bouaddi, Gessime Yassine and Ayoube Amaimouni. Stuttgart triggered a 15 million option after a 3 million loan for a polished No 10 who creates and presses.

Bosnia’s Kerim Alajbegovic came through Köln and Leverkusen, joined RB Salzburg for 2 million in 2025, then returned for 8 million. The Austrian Bundesliga’s breakout at 17, he even took penalties in play-off shoot-outs for Sergej Barbarez.

France’s Maghnes Akliouche may not start amid fierce competition but can unpick games, with Adi Hütter praising his unique gifts. Norway’s Antonio Nusa dazzled against Italy and could light up the tournament.

Croatia’s Luka Vuskovic, 1.93m, blends aerial power with build-up quality and an eye for goal, scoring seven in Belgium and five for HSV, including the 2025 Bundesliga Goal of the Year. Tottenham paid 10 million in 2025, his value now 60.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo