Messi, Mbappé and Neymar: who'll wear the No 10 at the World Cup

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Radio Gol

·5 Juni 2026

Messi, Mbappé and Neymar: who'll wear the No 10 at the World Cup

Many familiar faces, others yet to be discovered. The 2026 World Cup will bring together 48 national teams, and each one will have a player wearing the number 10 shirt, traditionally associated with attacking responsibility, talent, creativity, and the ability to lead the team on the pitch. Among established stars, young talents, and local leaders, several of the tournament’s biggest names will wear this number during the competition.

Kylian Mbappé – France

The Real Madrid star tops any list of players to watch during the World Cup. The French forward already knows what it means to lift the World Cup trophy and play in two consecutive finals, and he will be chasing the record of becoming the highest scorer in World Cup history. That milestone belongs to Miroslav Klose (16), and “Kiki” already has 13 at just 27 years old.

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Lionel Messi – Argentina

What can be said about the captain, who will arrive with the hope of defending the crown won in Qatar 2022. Owner of a historic career and remarkable longevity, he will face his final World Cup appearance with many records still to break.

Jamal Musiala – Germany

The Bayern attacking midfielder has established himself as the main hope of Germany’s new generation. He stands out for his creativity, dribbling ability, and capacity to break through opposition lines. At just 23 years old, he will be one of the most important pieces in Germany’s dream of competing for the title again after the blows suffered in Russia and Qatar.

Dani Olmo – Spain

The Barcelona man appears as one of the players expected to make the difference for Spain. His intelligence in finding space, combined with his technical quality, makes him a decisive player in attack. La Roja will trust in his talent as they try to reach the decisive stages of the World Cup.

Mbappé, Messi, Neymar and Dani Olmo, some of the number 10s to watch at the World Cup.

Bernardo Silva – Portugal

He will head into another World Cup as one of Portugal’s leaders after years of starring at the top level of European football. He arrives with the experience needed to take on the team’s leadership, alongside Cristiano. His vision and precision on the ball will be essential to Portugal’s ambitions.

Marcus Rashford – England

Another Barcelona player who will look to cement his importance within the England national team on the biggest stage. The attacker already left a strong impression in Qatar 2022, where he showed efficiency in front of goal. His speed and ability to decide matches could make him one of England’s strongest cards.

Neymar Jr. – Brazil

Still injured and with no certainty over how much he might feature, Neymar remains the man to fear for Brazil. He is aiming to play what would be his final World Cup in the yellow shirt under Ancelotti, with the major goal of winning the only title still missing from his successful career.

Bernardo Silva, Marcus Rashford and Neymar Jr.

Alexis Vega – Mexico

He arrives at the World Cup as one of Mexico’s main attacking references. The Toluca player is in excellent form and will take on the responsibility of leading the host nation. After the disappointment of Qatar 2022, he will try to guide El Tri to a memorable performance in front of their home fans.

Christian Pulisic – United States

Christian Pulisic will be tasked with leading the United States’ hopes on home soil. The Milan attacker is going through one of the best moments of his career and has established himself as a leader on and off the pitch. His explosiveness, skill, and experience will be key to competing against the major powers.

Jonathan David – Canada

The Juventus striker arrives backed by his outstanding goal-scoring numbers and steady growth in European football. As one of the hosts, Canada will place much of their hopes on his ability to decide matches.