Sports
Star Players Left Out of World Cup 2026
AI Summary
The World Cup 2026 squads have been finalised, with several star players being left out. This article highlights the best players who didn't make it to the tournament.
The Omitted XI
With every squad for the World Cup 2026 now finalised, we take a look at the star players who have been snubbed.
Meet the Star Players Watching from the Sofa
The reactions to the omissions were fascinating, with some players expressing their disappointment on social media.
- Lucas Chevalier (France): The goalkeeper had a brutal season after a €40m move from Lille to PSG.
- Jeremie Frimpong (Netherlands): The right-back suffered from being played out of position by Arne Slot at Liverpool.
- António Silva (Portugal): The 22-year-old centre-back fell out of favour for club and country at the worst possible time.
- Dean Huijsen (Spain): The Dutch-born defender's decision to switch allegiance after a youth career with the Netherlands looks to be a gaffe.
- Alejandro Balde (Spain): The left-back can feel unlucky to miss out with 42 appearances in all competitions for La Liga champions Barcelona.
The Midfield Snubs
- Adam Wharton (England): The central midfielder was surprisingly left out of the England squad.
- Eduardo Camavinga (France): The 23-year-old is another Madrid casualty, with France's squad being stacked.
- Diego Luna (USA): The central midfielder was informed via email by Mauricio Pochettino that he was out, despite seven goal involvements in 16 internationals.
The Forwards Left Out
- Mika Godts (Belgium): The wonderkid can play off both flanks but his versatility and goal contributions for Ajax were not enough.
- Morgan Gibbs-White (England): The left wing player was arguably the best player in the Premier League in 2026.
- João Pedro (Brazil): The striker was player of the year for a mid-table Premier League side but didn't make it to the Brazil squad.