Five biggest World Cup 2026 squad omissions | OneFootball

FIFA has set a June 1 deadline to submit squads for the 2026 World Cup.

A host of countries have already confirmed their squads for the summer tournament, while others are set to announce soon.

Some of the biggest names in world football have been surprisingly snubbed, and below we look at a few of these stars.

Joao Pedro (Brazil)

If recent form is the main criteria for selection, Pedro should definitely have been picked by Brazil manager Carlo Ancelotti.

The 24-year-old has bagged 15 goals and eight assists in 34 Premier League appearances for Chelsea.

But he hasn’t been selected, probably due to his poor record with the national side. The forward is yet to score in eight appearances.

Cole Palmer (England)

Palmer was England’s goalscorer against Spain in the Euro 2024 final, but he has been left out by Thomas Tuchel for the upcoming World Cup.

Tuchel’s decision has merit, as the attacking midfielder has struggled with injury issues throughout the season.

Palmer needs a summer of rest to fully recover and start the next term in the best shape possible.

Adam Wharton (England)

Wharton has greatly enhanced his reputation since switching Crystal Palace for Blackburn Rovers in January 2024.

However, the 22-year-old has been snubbed for a place in the World Cup, with Tuchel picking Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson, Jordan Henderson and Kobbie Mainoo.

Henderson’s selection is the most surprising, but he is probably chosen due to his experience and leadership skills.

Eduardo Camavinga (France)

Camavinga is one of the biggest names to be left out by Didier Deschamps.

At 23, he has made over 200 appearances for Real Madrid, with two La Liga titles and two Champions League trophies to his name.

But Deschamps explained Camavinga’s difficult 2025-26 season played a major role in the decision to drop him.

Mateus Fernandes (Portugal)

Fernandes’ World Cup omission was a surprise, given his impressive performances for West Ham United in 2025-26.

His displays for the Hammers have caught the attention of Manchester United and Arsenal.

Portugal are stacked with quality midfielders, but Fernandes should have been picked ahead of Mallorca’s Samu Costa.