Portraits of Yan Diomande, Luka Vuskovic, and Nico O'Reilly, rising stars to watch at the World Cup.

Who Will Be the Next Emerging Star at the 2026 World Cup?

Each World Cup introduces us to a new footballing star whose breakthrough performance captivates fans and pundits alike. From Enzo Fernandez lighting up Qatar in 2022, to Kylian Mbappe’s dazzling display in Russia 2018, and James Rodriguez bursting onto the scene in Brazil 2014 — the tournament always reveals exceptional talents destined for greatness.

As the 2026 World Cup approaches, hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, the footballing world eagerly awaits the next young star to shine on the global stage. Here are three rising players who could define the tournament with their extraordinary skills and promising careers.

Yan Diomande: Ivory Coast’s Dribbling Dynamo

A remarkable rise has seen RB Leipzig forward Yan Diomande become one of the Bundesliga’s most exciting talents just in his first season.

From Obscurity to Bundesliga Star

Just a year ago, Leipzig secured the 19-year-old from Leganes for around £17 million.
At Leganes, Diomande had started only half a dozen games, but his move to Leipzig saw a breakthrough.
This season, he scored 12 goals and contributed 8 assists, establishing himself as a key attacking force.

The Dribbling Wizard

Diomande completed 118 successful take-ons, the highest in the Bundesliga, which was 50 more than the next-best player.
His dribbling ability is his superpower, making him a constant threat on the right wing.

Transfer Frenzy

Following Mohamed Salah’s exit, Liverpool has made Diomande their top target for the right-wing position.
Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United are also interested.
Leipzig values him at more than £86m (€100m), reflecting his rising stock.

World Cup Prospects

Ivory Coast, who missed the last two World Cups, will hope their teenage star lights up the tournament with his dazzling skills, potentially forming a forward line alongside Manchester United’s Amad Diallo.

Luka Vuskovic: Croatia’s Defensive Prodigy

Another young talent in the spotlight is Luka Vuskovic, the 19-year-old Spurs defender currently shining on loan at Hamburg in the Bundesliga.

Rapid Rise in Europe

Spurs signed Vuskovic from Hajduk Split for £10 million just last summer.
At Hamburg, he earned a spot in the Bundesliga Team of the Season, boasting six league goals — more than any other centre-back.
His defensive skills and set-piece threat have earned widespread recognition, including praise from German football legends.

World Cup Debut

Vuskovic earned his first senior cap for Croatia in June last year.
Croatia’s national coach Zlatko Dalic sees him as the country’s long-term starting centre-back.
The 2026 World Cup will be his stage to prove this prediction right.
Spurs fans can look forward to watching their new star go head-to-head with England in Group L.

Nico O’Reilly: England’s New Left-Back Sensation

England has long searched for a reliable left-back, and Manchester City’s Nico O’Reilly might be the answer.

Breakthrough Season

Named Premier League Young Player of the Season, O’Reilly quickly cemented himself as a crucial figure under Pep Guardiola.
Stepping in during Rayan Aït-Nouri’s injury, he transformed the left-back role with strong defensive and offensive contributions.
He scored nine goals across competitions, including a match-winning brace in the Carabao Cup final against Arsenal.

Physical and Tactical Asset

Standing at 6ft 4in, O’Reilly combines aerial threat with composure on the ball.
His knack for scoring and defending set-pieces matches England’s World Cup aspirations to be dangerous in dead-ball situations.

World Cup Potential

O’Reilly’s rapid rise means he is poised to be a starter for England in 2026, delivering crucial performances on football’s biggest stage.

Conclusion: The Next Generation to Watch

As the 2026 World Cup draws near, fans can look forward to witnessing the emergence of future football icons. Whether it’s the dazzling dribbles of Yan Diomande, the rock-solid defending of Luka Vuskovic, or the versatile threat of Nico O’Reilly, these young stars represent the bright future of world football.

Who will be this World Cup’s standout performer? The journey promises to be thrilling, and football lovers worldwide will be watching closely as these talents carve their names into World Cup history.