Jorginho, who joined Flamengo from Arsenal earlier this month, has been one of the most standout players from the first gameweek of the ongoing Club World Cup
The first week of the FIFA Club World Cup has delivered plenty of drama, flair, and individual brilliance—despite the absence of some of the world’s most iconic teams.
Hosted in the United States, the tournament has given a platform for a blend of household names and emerging talent to shine.
Here are six players who’ve lit up the tournament so far:
Jorginho (Flamengo)
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Recently arrived in Brazil from Arsenal, Jorginho has quickly cemented himself as the heartbeat of Flamengo’s midfield.
Thrust into a leadership role by manager Filipe Luis, the 33-year-old has brought structure and calm to a previously disjointed side.
With Uruguay's Nico de la Cruz sidelined, Jorginho stepped up with intelligent distribution and composure, dictating play and linking well with attacking threats like De Arrascaeta and Gerson.
His composed performance against former club Chelsea turned heads—and proved he’s still one of the smartest minds in football.
Pedro Neto (Chelsea)
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Chelsea’s Pedro Neto has been on a mission. The Portuguese winger has combined sharpness, pace, and confidence, giving full-backs nightmares on both flanks.
His standout display came against LAFC, where he not only netted a superb goal but also showcased the direct, high-energy style that makes him such a handful in transition.
With the impending arrival of Palmeiras sensation Estevão, Neto is proving he’s not ready to give up his place quietly. If anything, he’s raising the bar.
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Salem Al-Dawsari (Al Hilal)
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Saudi Arabia’s Salem Al-Dawsari continues to dazzle on the global stage. Known for his stunning goal against Argentina at the 2022 World Cup, the Al Hilal winger put in a brilliant shift against Real Madrid, going head-to-head with debutant Trent Alexander-Arnold.
His dribbling, directness, and flair were reminiscent of Vinicius Jr., and at 33, he’s still delivering top-class performances. A reminder of the magic that seasoned international players can bring to these stages.
Igor Jesus (Botafogo)
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Physical, clever, and fearless—Igor Jesus has been a nightmare for defenders. Though standing under 6 feet, he plays like a target man with an edge, outmuscling bigger opponents and scoring crucial goals for Botafogo.
In matches against Seattle Sounders and PSG, he stood out not just for his aerial ability but for his intelligent movement and gritty determination. Set to join Nottingham Forest alongside teammates Jair Cunha and Cuiabano, he’s making his European audition count.
Gonzalo Garcia-(Real Madrid)
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In a Real Madrid side stacked with stars, it’s been academy product Gonzalo Garcia who’s seized the spotlight.
With Kylian Mbappe sidelined, the 21-year-old forward made the most of his opportunity—scoring the opening goal of the Xabi Alonso era with a stunning full-pitch move and composed finish.
His strong positional sense, pressing, and aerial presence have turned him into a legitimate threat. With Endrick injured, Garcia is showing he’s ready for bigger stages.
Kenan Yildiz (Juventus)
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Juventus' Kenan Yildiz was already on a few radar screens heading into the tournament, but he’s now firmly in the spotlight.
The 20-year-old forward has produced spectacular moments, including a thunderous opening goal and an assist-forcing run that led to an own goal.
Already scoring wondergoals in Serie A and the Champions League, Yildiz has used the Club World Cup as a showcase for his all-around attacking talent. He’s fast becoming the face of Juventus’ next generation.
With knockout stages approaching and top clubs jostling for global bragging rights, the next week promises even more fireworks. But if week one has shown us anything, it’s that whether seasoned or emerging, talent always finds a way to shine on the world stage.
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