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Aside from Lamine Yamal, Pulse Sports has outlined the 10 rising stars who are backed to dominate the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
With the 2026 World Cup just around the corner, attention is shifting towards the players poised to shine in the expanded 48-team tournament.
The 23rd edition of the global event will take place in Canada, Mexico, and the USA from June 11 to July 19.
With stars like Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappé, and Ousmane Dembélé already well-known, there is a wealth of under-the-radar talent ready to break through.
PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Sports News in Kenya from Pulse Sports
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09:00 - 11.06.2025
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In this article, Pulse Sports Kenya looks at the 10 rising stars to keep an eye on before they become household names, with reference to the Daily Mail.
10 Breakout Stars to Watch Before the 2026 World Cup
Rodrigo Mora (Portugal)
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Rodrigo Mora plays for Porto as an attacking midfielder. Recently, Roberto Martinez, Portugal's manager, tipped the 18-year-old to make a mark in Portuguese football.
A diminutive playmaker, Rodrigo Mora possesses phenomenal close control, slick passing, and exceptional vision. After a standout performance in the Under-17 Euros, he notched 10 goals and four assists in the Portuguese league this season.
A senior debut is imminent, and with Portugal's World Cup qualification virtually secured, Rodrigo Mora is one to watch.
Nico Paz (Argentina)
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Nico Paz plays for Como as an attacking midfielder. The 20-year-old has earned praise from the greatest footballer of all time, Lionel Messi.
Nico Paz has already assisted the legend on his international debut. The Real Madrid academy graduate honed his skills under Cesc Fàbregas at Como, showcasing a mesmerising left foot and exceptional dribbling ability. Named Serie A's Under-23 Player of the Year, Nico Paz is set to make waves as Argentina heads to the World Cup.
Rayan Cherki (France)
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The Manchester City winger/attacking midfielder's move to Etihad will place him in the spotlight. The 21-year-old has long been admired by Pep Guardiola.
The highly skilled Frenchman boasts impressive two-footedness and a knack for creating chances. While questions about his attitude linger, his talent is undeniable. With France among the World Cup favourites, Rayan Cherki could play a key role.
Andrey Santos (Brazil)
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Andrey Santos, 21, currently plays as a central midfielder for Chelsea. Santos breaks the mold of the typical Brazilian wonderkid.
Andrey Santos stands out as a tenacious ball-winner with a powerful shot. He has been hailed as a 'complete midfielder' by Brazil's new boss, Carlo Ancelotti. Fans can expect to see him in action at the Club World Cup with Chelsea.
Antonio Nusa (Norway)
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Antonio Nusa plays as a winger for RB Leipzig. The 20-year-old has been dubbed the 'Norwegian Mbappe' and he is surely living up to that name.
Nusa has already showcased his electrifying pace and skill on the international stage. His contributions have helped Norway to a flying start in World Cup qualifying, raising hopes of Erling Haaland's first major tournament appearance.
Mika Biereth (Denmark)
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The former Arsenal youngster, described as an 'old-school striker', has an instinct for goals. After firing Sturm Graz to the Austrian title, he continued his prolific form at Monaco. Now committed to Denmark, Biereth, just 22, is eager to make his mark on the international scene.
Pau Cubarsi (Spain)
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While Lamine Yamal grabs the headlines, Cubarsi quietly anchors Barcelona's defense. His composure and passing ability are remarkable for his age, and he's already being touted as a future captain.
With Spain among the World Cup contenders, Cubarsi, the 22-year-old Barcelona central defender, could be a key figure.
Francesco Camarda (Italy)
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Francesco Camarda, the 17-year-old Milan striker, will certainly be among the players to watch at the 2026 World Cup.
While the 2026 World Cup might be a bit early for Camarda, his prodigious goal-scoring record at youth level makes him one to watch. Hailed as the 'future of Italian football,' he will be hoping to help Italy return to the world stage.
Jorrel Hato (Netherlands)
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The latest talent to emerge from Ajax's famed academy, Jorrel Hato is a versatile defender with composure beyond his years. Already linked with Premier League clubs, he's set to become a mainstay for the Netherlands.
Estêvão Willian (Brazil)
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Nicknamed 'Messinho,' Estevao has generated immense hype. A dazzling dribbler with an eye for goal, he's drawn comparisons to Neymar. His impending move to Chelsea will only amplify the attention surrounding this exceptional talent.
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