💎 5️⃣ young stars set to shine at the World Cup

💎 5️⃣ young stars set to shine at the World Cup Ready to shock the football world? At the 2026 World Cup, plenty of young players are waiting for their chance to shine and announce themselves on the world stage. So here are five wonderkids who could set the tournament alight. Could one of them even get their hands on the award for best young player of the tournament? Gilberto Mora (Mexico) The youngest player at the World Cup at 17 years and 240 days old on opening day, the Mexican playmaker is a huge talent already being courted by Europe’s biggest clubs. He has already broken his country’s record by becoming the youngest player in its history to earn a call-up, and already has seven appearances to his name, as well as having started the Gold Cup final. That, along with the fact he already has more than 50 club appearances, shows just how highly rated he is. This is Mora’s chance to announce himself to the whole world. Ibrahim Mbaye (Senegal) Already well known in France, the PSG wonderkid has the chance to make a name for himself on the international stage this summer. The 18-year-old Senegalese is the fourth-youngest player at this summer’s World Cup. Earlier this year, he became the youngest goalscorer in his country’s history as he helped his side reach the final of a controversial Africa Cup of Nations. Given the incredible level of competition for places in his position at PSG, opportunities have naturally been harder to come by, but the fact he has still been given a chance says a lot about his talent. In an ambitious Senegal side, he could be one of the sensations of the summer. Luka Vuskovic (Croatia) Having already started to make a name for himself, Luka Vušković could use the 2026 World Cup to go to another level. At just 19, the Croatian defender, on loan at Hamburg from Tottenham, is regarded as one of the brightest prospects in Europe in his position. He broke through very early at Hajduk Split, standing out for his exceptional maturity, his impact in duels and his ability to contribute offensively despite his young age. In a Croatia side seeking renewal, he has the opportunity to establish himself as one of the breakout stars of the tournament. Findlay Curtis (Scotland) Scotland is a nation with a strong tradition of producing exciting wingers, but that profile has become rare over the past few decades. However, in Curtis, 19, they seem to have a player in the mould of their former greats: quick, exciting with the ball at his feet and always ready to cause problems for full-backs. Impressive on loan at Kilmarnock from Rangers last season, he could be a real game-changing option off the bench. He also opened his international account with a first goal in May’s friendly win over Curaçao. Curtis could be his country’s secret weapon in the United States. Johan Manzambi  (Switzerland) Still little known outside the Bundesliga, despite being named Europa League breakthrough player of the season, Johan Manzambi could use the 2026 World Cup to burst into the mainstream spotlight. The 20-year-old Swiss midfielder has established himself this season as one of SC Freiburg’s standout breakout players. Developed at Servette FC before moving to Germany, he quickly caught the eye with his work rate, technical quality and ability to make the difference in both penalty areas. His club performances have opened the door to the Swiss national team, where he has already made an impression despite his young age. In an ambitious Switzerland side, he has all the qualities to become one of the sensations of the tournament. This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇫🇷 here.