From Ronaldo to Messi: Top stars to watch at 2026 World Cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico, features a massive 48-team field packed with global superstars, established icons, and rising talents

According to a post obtained from MSN.com on Friday, here’s a look at some of the most famous and impactful players heading to the tournament:

Veteran Legends

Cristiano Ronaldo (Portugal): The all-time international goalscorer is set for a record sixth World Cup at age 41. He remains Portugal’s captain and biggest draw, chasing the one major trophy still missing from his collection.

Lionel Messi (Argentina): The 2022 champion captain is likely making his final World Cup appearance. Even in the twilight of his career, Messi’s genius continues to captivate fans worldwide.

Global Superstars

Kylian Mbappé (France): One of the top Golden Boot contenders and one of the world’s most dangerous forwards.

Erling Haaland (Norway): Making his World Cup debut and expected to be a goal-scoring machine.

Vinícius Júnior (Brazil): A dynamic, full-fledged global superstar bringing pace, skill, and flair to Brazil’s attack.

Mohamed Salah (Egypt): Africa and the Middle East’s biggest icon. Egypt’s qualification ensures massive attention on Salah as he seeks a deep tournament run.

Rising Stars and Breakout Candidates

Lamine Yamal (Spain): The teenage sensation already regarded as one of football’s brightest young talents and a potential breakout star of the tournament.

Jamal Musiala (Germany): Germany’s most exciting young player and a highly marketable star. A deep German run could send his profile into the stratosphere.

Bukayo Saka (England): A key figure for England, known for delivering under pressure.

Key Midfield Anchors and Leaders

Jude Bellingham (England): Dynamic box-to-box midfielder and one of England’s main hopes.

Declan Rice (England): The quiet backbone and leader of this England generation. His control, leadership, and consistency make him essential to England’s title ambitions.

Harry Kane (England): Proven goalscorer and captain.

Federico Valverde (Uruguay): The heart of Uruguay’s intense, aggressive style.

Julián Álvarez (Argentina): Stepping into a bigger role as Argentina transitions beyond the Messi era.

Rodri (Spain) and Ousmane Dembélé (France): Elite performers who anchor their teams.

Other notable stars include Son Heung-min (South Korea’s Asian icon), as well as talents from qualified sides such as Brazil, Spain, France, Germany, Argentina, and more. This edition marks a passing of the torch, the final dance for icons like Messi and Ronaldo, while the next generation (Mbappé, Haaland, Yamal, Musiala, etc.) aims to claim the spotlight.

The tournament begins on June 11, 2026.