The 2026 World Cup kicks off with global soccer icons like Lionel Messi of Argentina and Cristiano Ronaldo, both considered among the greatest ever. Before the matches start, let’s discuss the players likely to make the biggest impact for their countries.
Lionel Messi, Argentina
Lionel Messi remains a top player at 38 years old, although he is not in his prime. He has won the Ballon d’Or a record eight times and led Barcelona to numerous victories. Internationally, he played a key role in Argentina’s 2022 World Cup win, scoring two crucial goals in the final against France. Now with Inter Miami, Messi continues to demonstrate elite playmaking and goal-scoring skills, having netted 12 goals in the MLS season. Argentina, ranked third globally by FIFA, relies heavily on Messi’s expertise as they aim to win consecutive World Cups, a feat last achieved by Brazil in 1962.
Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal
Cristiano Ronaldo joins Portugal for his sixth and possibly final World Cup at 41. Despite his illustrious career, a World Cup victory remains elusive. Ronaldo’s inclusion aims to fill this gap as he faces robust world-class competition after playing in Saudi Arabia’s domestic league since 2023. Portugal, well-known for winning the 2016 Euros, faces additional challenges, including compensating for the loss of forward Diogo Jota.
Kylian Mbappé, France
Kylian Mbappé made history with France at the age of 19 by contributing to their World Cup victory in 2018. Now 27, he is determined to secure another title for France. Despite an impressive season with Real Madrid, where he scored 24 goals, his fitness is under scrutiny due to recent hamstring issues. If Mbappé remains healthy, he is poised to drive France toward their third World Cup title.
Sadio Mané, Senegal
Sadio Mané anticipates his swan song at the 2026 World Cup with Senegal. Known for his exceptional wing play, Mané leads Senegal’s all-time scoring chart with 53 goals. He missed the 2022 World Cup due to injury, but his influence shone in Senegal’s Africa Cup of Nations successes. Senegal hopes to emulate or surpass their 2002 World Cup quarterfinal finish with Mané’s experience and leadership.
Son Heung-min, South Korea
Son Heung-min, now with LAFC, is South Korea’s ray of hope. Known for his dynamic forward play, Son has led in assists in the MLS amid a recent scoring slump. This World Cup marks his fourth appearance, offering a chance for South Korea to make a significant tournament impact, with Mexico as a key group-stage adversary.
Virgil van Dijk, Netherlands
Virgil van Dijk captains the Netherlands in what might be his last World Cup at 34. The central defender is pivotal as the Dutch, ranked seventh worldwide, aim for victory after consistently reaching advanced stages in recent tournaments. The loss of Xavi Simons adds to the challenges, yet van Dijk’s leadership remains crucial for their success.
Luka Modrić, Croatia
Luka Modrić, at 40, leads Croatia as they seek a long-standing World Cup achievement. Despite Croatia not being top-ranked, Modrić’s storied career, marked by awards like the Golden Ball and the Ballon d’Or, inspires belief that Croatia can make another significant run at the tournament.
Mohamed Salah, Egypt
Mohamed Salah, known as “The Egyptian King,” returns to the World Cup after 2018. Although his club career has faced challenges, Salah’s significance to Egypt remains unparalleled. He aims to guide Egypt past the group stage for the first time in nearly a century, solidifying his legacy not only in Egypt but across the Middle East and North Africa.