Spain’s young star, Lamine Yamal, emerges as a potential top soccer player at 18 as he enters the World Cup. Yamal, who lifted the European championship at 16, aims to extend his international success.

Although a key figure in the upcoming World Cup in North America, Yamal is not among the tournament’s five youngest players. He will turn 19 during the event if Spain reaches the final.

Youngest Players in the World Cup

Here are the three youngest players participating, beginning with the only 17-year-old:

Gilberto Mora: 17 years, 240 days (Mexico, Club Tijuana)

Mora draws comparisons to Yamal at this World Cup for his potential. While not yet at Yamal’s level, the 17-year-old represents the future of a Mexican team seeking fresh talent. The decision for Mexico is whether to start him or use him as a super substitute for a late-game boost.

Hugo Sochurek: 18 years, 4 days (Czechia, Sparta Prague)

Just turning 18 before the World Cup, Sochurek stands as the only other teenager participating besides Mora. He has progressed through Czechia’s football system and is considered more of a prospect for 2030, rather than an immediate contender.

Lennart Karl: 18 years, 109 days (Germany, Bayern Munich)

Karl is seen as a generational talent within soccer’s global elite. As Bayern Munich’s youngest-ever Champions League goal scorer, he distinguished himself by netting in three consecutive matches in this prestigious competition. With his creativity and energy, Karl could become a standout name in the World Cup for Germany.