World Cup 2026: a best XI of notable omissions | OneFootball

World Cup 2026 squad lists have stirred excitement and argument in equal measure. A raft of high-profile omissions could assemble a formidable XI.

According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, France left out goalkeeper Lucas Chevalier, with Mike Maignan and Brice Samba preferred. Didier Deschamps also overlooked Eduardo Camavinga, selecting a shorter midfield group despite his left-back versatility.

Netherlands right-back Jeremie Frimpong was omitted, with Denzel Dumfries and Jurrien Timber preferred on that flank. Centre-back Sven Botman also missed out, as Virgil van Dijk, Nathan Aké, Micky van de Ven and Jan Paul van Hecke were chosen.

Spain excluded Dean Huijsen, and their defence will be Pau Cubarsí, Eric Garcia, Marc Pubill and Aymeric Laporte for the tournament in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Atalanta's Éderson was left at home by Brazil boss Carlo Ancelotti, who opted for more destructive profiles such as Bruno Guimaraes or Casemiro. Up front, Joao Pedro missed out as Neymar was preferred, then injured.

For England, Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton was overlooked, with Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson, Jude Bellingham, Eberechi Eze, Jordan Henderson, Kobbie Mainoo and Morgan Rogers selected. Manchester City's Phil Foden and Chelsea's Cole Palmer were also omitted.

Germany dispensed with Karim Adeyemi, while Lennart Karl was initially named before injury allowed RB Leipzig's Assan Ouédraogo to take his place.

Such technical calls are part of tournament football, with coaches prioritising players who best fit their idea and the team's moment.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo