2026 FIFA World Cup Preparations
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is on the horizon, with 48 nations set to vie for the prestigious title in football.
This time, the tournament will take place across North America, featuring Canada, Mexico, and the United States as co-hosts. There are a multitude of exciting scenarios anticipated this summer. Notable among them is the possibility of a showdown between Messi’s Argentina and Lamine Yamal’s Spain. We might even witness a final face-off between Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, along with Kylian Mbappé’s quest for his second World Cup victory.
On paper, Japan stands out as a formidable contender. Current champions Argentina, along with Euro winners Spain, and powerhouses like England and France, are seen as favorites. There are also other strong teams like Brazil, Germany, and Portugal that are brimming with exceptional talent.
However, while some squads are flaunting star-studded rosters, the question remains: who will ultimately shine in the lineup?
In early May, SB Nation engaged former Barcelona midfielder and TUDN broadcaster Marc Crosas to explore which players might make the cut for the best XI.
- GK: Thibaut Courtois (Belgium, Real Madrid)
- RB: Achraf Hakimi (Morocco, Paris Saint-Germain)
- CB: William Saliba (France, Arsenal)
- CB: Cristian Romero (Argentina, Tottenham Hotspur)
- LB: Nuno Mendes (Portugal, Paris Saint-Germain)
- CM: Vitinha (Portugal, Paris Saint-Germain)
- CM: Pedri (Barcelona, Spain)
- CM: Fermin López (Barcelona, Spain)*
- RW: Lamine Yamal (Spain, Barcelona)
- LW: Lionel Messi (Argentina, Inter Miami)
- ST: Kylian Mbappé (France, Real Madrid)
Overall, Crosas selected players from six different countries.
Most would likely agree with Crosas’ selections. PSG’s dynamic duo, Hakimi and Mendes, are often regarded as top players in their respective positions. Their ability to defend and transition into attack could be crucial. Saliba, one of the leading defenders globally, played an integral role in Arsenal’s recent Premier League win.
Now, the inclusion of Romero might raise eyebrows, considering Tottenham’s rocky season where they barely avoided relegation. Still, he’s shown flashes of brilliance at times. Some might even argue he plays better for Argentina, as evidenced in the 2022 World Cup where he was instrumental in Argentina’s success. Others may prefer players such as Gabriel or Marquinhos from Brazil, or the seasoned Virgil van Dijk from the Netherlands, but this defense certainly has the potential to be impactful.
Fermin’s recent addition to Barcelona’s midfield came after a strong season, and Crosas believes he could have been a key figure for Spain this summer. Though sidelined due to injury, his combination with Vitinha is seen as promising for the tournament. In his absence, suggestively bringing in Portugal’s Joao Neves might provide a smoother transition.
If a more offensive alternative is considered, Bruno Fernandes, who remarkably set a Premier League record for assists this past season, emerges as a strong contender.
Offensively, Yamal is currently one of the most exciting young talents. The 18-year-old is often discussed as a potential successor to Messi, and if Spain clinches the title, that claim could strengthen. While Messi might not fit neatly into his traditional role on the left, Crosas suggests his versatility could come into play, allowing him to roam freely. Regardless of age or competition, there’s still something undeniable about Messi’s talent.
Lastly, Mbappé leads the offensive charge for France and Real Madrid. Despite a couple of less impressive seasons, he continues to be a dominant force, consistently finding the back of the net and solidifying his status as a superstar. While Harry Kane from England is also notable, Crosas seems particularly focused on Mbappé.
