![[TEST] Top 200 v2](https://a57.foxsports.com/statics.foxsports.com/www.foxsports.com/content/uploads/2025/06/1294/728/gettyimages-1240923663-scaled.jpg?ve=1&tl=1)
The best players in the world will be on display this summer at the 2026 World Cup. So, let’s rank them.
Ahead of the world's premier sporting event, our experts ranked the 100 best stars who will likely feature at this summer’s World Cup, hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada.
This week we're releasing Nos. 50-26, and there are some serious star players making their appearances. Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo — who is expected to play in his sixth World Cup — joins the list, as do Belgium's Kevin De Bruyne and Croatia's Luka Modrić. Where do these legends land and which young stars beat them out on the countdown?
[Test Article - Top 200]
Without further ado, let’s get into it!
2026 FIFA World Cup Top 100 Players: Nos. 100-76
100.
Pervis Estupiñán | Defender | Ecuador
(Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
Age: 28
National team appearances: 52
Club team: AC Milan (Italy)
Estupiñán thrived in the Premier League for three seasons with Brighton before making a move to AC Milan last summer. He is one of the impressive talents that make Ecuador a potential sleeper this summer.
99.
Alexander Isak | Forward | Sweden
(Photo by JONATHAN NACKSTRAND/AFP via Getty Images)
Age: 26
National team appearances: 56
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Isak scored 52 goals in his last two seasons at Newcastle before making a big-money move to Liverpool last summer. Injuries have limited him to just four goals and 21 games this season, but he is a constant threat to score whenever he’s on the pitch.
"This is a guy who shows he oozes quality in the final third. He’s a guy that can be a threat in behind, he can link up play, but more than anything else, he’s a finisher." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
98.
Kim Min-jae | Defender | South Korea
(Photo by Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images)
Age: 29
National team appearances: 77
Club team: Bayern Munich (Germany)
Kim won Serie A with Napoli in 2023 before making a big move to Bayern Munich. He hasn’t established himself as a first-choice player for the German giants, but he will be a pillar in the Korean defense this summer.
"When we redo this, maybe at the end of the tournament, and we look back, we might say, ‘I can’t believe we had Kim only at 98,’ when he comes out as one of the great center backs of the tournament." — Alexi Lalas, FOX Sports Analyst
97.
Bradley Barcola | Forward | France
(Photo by Catherine Steenkeste/Getty Images)
Age: 23
National team appearances: 18
Club team: Paris Saint-Germain (France)
Barcola is one of the hugely talented French attacking players who will be vying for a starting spot. At 22 years old, Barcola is one of the best young wingers in the world and plays at PSG, which won last season’s UEFA Champions League.
96.
Lisandro Martínez | Defender | Argentina
(Photo by Daniel Jayo/Getty Images)
Age: 28
National team appearances: 26
Club team: Manchester United (England)
Martínez would start at center back for most teams in this tournament, but he’s likely going to start as the third option behind Cristian Romero and Nicolas Otamendi, who started during Argentina’s winning run in 2022. He can fill in at left back, as well, and will play a role somehow for the reigning champions.
95.
Phil Foden | Forward | England
(Photo by Michael Regan - The FA/The FA via Getty Images)
Age: 25
National team appearances: 49
Club team: Manchester City (England)
Foden was the Premier League Player of the Season in 2023-24, but he has not built off that honor. At 25 years old, he is yet to find his footing and establish a spot in the England team.
94.
Kaoru Mitoma | Forward | Japan
(Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)
Age: 28
National team appearances: 31
Club team: Brighton (England)
Mitoma is an exciting winger who broke out two years ago for Brighton. He scored the winning goal for Japan back on March 31 in a friendly against England and will be the key player in attack for his country this summer.
Editor's note: Mitoma will miss the World Cup due to a hamstring injury on May 9.
93.
Marcus Thuram | Forward | France
(Photo by Antonio Borga/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)
Age: 28
National team appearances: 33
Club team: Inter Milan (Italy)
Kylian Mbappé will likely lead France’s attack at the start of the tournament, but Thuram is a very good alternative. Son of former France star Lilian Thuram, Marcus has scored at least 12 Serie A goals in each of his first three seasons at Inter Milan.
92.
Mikel Oyarzabal | Forward | Spain
(Photo by Manuel Queimadelos/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images)
Age: 29
National team appearances: 52
Club team: Real Sociedad (Spain)
A winger by trade for Real Sociedad, Oyarzabal has stepped up as a striker for the national team in the past. The best example was in the Euro 2024 final, when he scored the winning goal for Spain against England.
"Just an absolute baller. I think he should be so much higher than 92. He’s so underrated. He’s 29 years old, and he’s played in six finals in his career. Do you know in how many of those finals he has scored? All six. He’s scored in every final that he has played in." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
91.
Gonçalo Ramos | Forward | Portugal
(Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)
Age: 24
National team appearances: 24
Club team: Paris Saint-Germain (France)
Ramos famously replaced Cristiano Ronaldo in the Portugal lineup for a Round of 16 game against Switzerland at the 2022 World Cup and scored a hat trick. Ronaldo will likely start the tournament up front for Portugal, but Ramos is one of the best backup strikers you’ll see this summer.
90.
Raúl Jiménez | Forward | Mexico
(Photo by Yair Gonzalez/Jam Media/Getty Images)
Age: 34
National team appearances: 125
Club team: Fulham (England)
Jiménez is a fixture in the Fulham starting lineup and will be the main man for Mexico this summer. With 44 goals for El Tri, he’s two goals behind former striker Jared Borgetti for second most all time.
"The pressure that’s going to be on his shoulders will be incredibly heavy." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
89.
Kenan Yıldız | Forward | Türkiye
(Photo by Hakan Akgun/Anadolu via Getty Images)
Age: 20
National team appearances: 28
Club team: Juventus (Italy)
Yıldız broke into the Juventus lineup three years ago and quickly became a focal point of the team’s attack. At 20 years old, he has already made 28 appearances for Türkiye.
"He is a guy that, at any moment, can change a game." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
88.
Eberechi Eze | Forward | England
(Photo by Michael Regan - The FA/The FA via Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 16
Club team: Arsenal (England)
Eze made a huge move to Arsenal last summer and immediately became a big part of Mikel Arteta's squad. He normally plays an attacking role, but he could push for the spot in England's midfield that is usually occupied by Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham.
87.
Mikel Merino | Midfielder | Spain
(Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images)
Age: 29
National team appearances: 41
Club team: Arsenal (England)
Merino is unlikely to start for Spain, but he'll still probably play a big role. He scored eight goals in 10 appearances last year for the reigning European champions. A midfielder by trade, Merino has also played as a striker for both club and country.
86.
Casemiro | Midfielder | Brazil
(Photo by Stephen Nadler/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images)
Age: 34
National team appearances: 84
Club team: Manchester United (England)
Casemiro is a four-time Champions League winner at Real Madrid, but he hasn’t maintained his high level of quality since moving to Manchester United in 2022. His former Real Madrid manager, Carlo Ancelotti, is now in charge of Brazil and brought the midfielder back to the national team last year.
"Have you watched Casemiro this season? He’s having a renaissance. He’s been flying. Brazil is going to need him with some of the injuries they’re picking up now." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
85.
Fabián Ruiz | Midfielder | Spain
(Photo by Fran Santiago - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images)
Age: 30
National team appearances: 41
Club team: Paris Saint-Germain (France)
Ruiz was part of PSG’s dominant midfield trio last year that powered the team’s Champions League victory. Spain’s midfield is loaded with talent, so it won’t be as easy for him to find a spot in the starting lineup.
84.
Marc Guéhi | Defender | England
(Photo by David Balogh - The FA/The FA via Getty Images)
Age: 25
National team appearances: 27
Club team: Manchester City (England)
Guéhi was the captain for Crystal Palace last summer when the South London club won the FA Cup. He moved to Manchester City earlier this year and has immediately become a fixture in the reigning Premier League champion’s defense.
83.
Jeremie Frimpong | Defender | Netherlands
(Photo by Rico Brouwer/Soccrates/Getty Images)
Age: 25
National team appearances: 15
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Frimpong is listed as a defender, but he’s as important to the Dutch attack as he is to its defense. He has impressive pace and is a constant threat down the right wing when he’s on the pitch.
82.
Reece James | Defender | England
(Photo by Jack Thomas - The FA/The FA via Getty Images)
Age: 26
National team appearances: 22
Club team: Chelsea (England)
James will be an important player for England this summer with versatility to play either right back or midfield. Staying healthy has been James’ problem at Chelsea, although he has played in more than two dozen games in the Premier League this season.
81.
Son Heung-min | Forward | South Korea
(Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
Age: 33
National team appearances: 143
Club team: LAFC (United States)
Son is in the middle of his first full season in Los Angeles after a decade in the Premier League with Tottenham Hotspur. He’s South Korea’s all-time leader in national team appearances.
"He’s struggling a little bit at the start of the season from a goals perspective. But I still think when it comes to South Korea, when it comes to big games, I don’t worry for a second." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
80.
Jules Koundé | Defender | France
(Photo by Franco Arland/Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 46
Club team: Barcelona (Spain)
Koundé will likely start at right back for the French, who are among the favorites this summer. He has made at least 40 appearances in each of the last four seasons for Barcelona.
79.
Christian Pulisic | Forward | United States
(Photo by Robin Alam/ISI Photos via Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 84
Club team: AC Milan (Italy)
"Captain America" will have all eyes on him this summer. At 27 years old, Pulisic has already made 84 appearances for the U.S. national team. His 32 goals are 25 behind Landon Donovan and Clint Dempsey. Pulisic has not scored for the U.S. since November 2024, so he’ll need to regain his form if the Americans want to make a run into the knockout round.
"On talent alone, Pulisic is a top-40 player in the world." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
78.
Arda Güler | Forward | Türkiye
(Photo by Hakan Akgun/Anadolu via Getty Images)
Age: 21
National team appearances: 28
Club team: Real Madrid (Spain)
Güler is finishing up his third season at Real Madrid and has emerged as a key player in the squad. He will be the main man for Türkiye for years to come, starting with this summer’s World Cup.
"[Güler] and Kenan Yıldız are going to play a big part for Türkiye in this World Cup. Playing at Real Madrid, there’s a certain level of not just quality that you need to have, but personality — being able to handle the weight of that shirt. And now, when you put on that Türkiye jersey as well, we’ve seen him deliver. At such a young age, we have seen him take that responsibility." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
77.
Viktor Gyökeres | Forward | Sweden
(Photo by Sebastian Frej/Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 32
Club team: Arsenal (England)
Gyökeres scored a memorable hat trick against Poland in the UEFA World Cup playoffs in March, including one in the 87th minute to seal a 3-2 win. He moved to Arsenal last summer and has 18 goals in all competitions.
76.
Dani Olmo | Forward | Spain
(Photo by Luciano Lima/Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 48
Club team: Barcelona (Spain)
Olmo emerged as a key player for Spain at Euro 2024. He scored three goals — finishing in a six-way tie for the Golden Boot — including one in the quarterfinal and semifinal against Germany and France, respectively.
2026 FIFA World Cup Top 100 Players: Nos. 75-51
75.
João Cancelo | Defender | Portugal
(Photo by Agustin Cuevas/Getty Images)
Age: 31
National team appearances: 66
Club team: Barcelona (Spain), on loan from Al-Hilal
Few defenders will be important attackers for their countries this summer, but Cancelo is one of them. The right back has impressive pace that makes him a threat down the wing. He has 12 goals in 66 appearances for Portugal, which is a very good rate for a defender.
74.
Gabriel Martinelli | Forward | Brazil
(Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images)
Age: 24
National team appearances: 22
Club team: Arsenal (England)
Martinelli will be a key player for Brazil this summer. He has struggled to establish a starting spot on the left wing because of Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo, but his pace means he will be a key contributor this summer. He only has one Premier League goal for Arsenal this season, so he isn’t in the best form right now.
73.
Weston McKennie | Midfielder | United States
(Photo by Shaun Clark/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 64
Club team: Juventus (Italy)
McKennie is the highest-rated American player on this list, having established himself as a fixture in Juventus’ lineup. He has played at least 34 games in Italy’s Serie A in each of the last three seasons and has been all over the field — in defense at fullback, in midfield and as an attacker. McKennie can do it all, which the United States may need him to do this summer if it makes a run through the knockout stages. If the Americans are playing, expect to see a lot of McKennie.
"Ever since he came into the national team, when he’s on the pitch, the team has a different kind of bounce to them. He’s expressive in everything he does, whether that’s attacking play in the final third or being on the opposite end defending and tracking back. One of the beautiful things about him is that he’s so adaptable. To me, he’s growing into being probably the most important player on this team." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
"The guy is a baller. I would say he’s having the most impressive season of his career. The most important thing is, now he’s playing further forward up the field, and he’s shown that he can score goals and create assists." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
72.
Alexis Mac Allister | Midfielder | Argentina
(Photo by Matias Baglietto/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 44
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Mac Allister will be a key presence in the Argentina midfield this summer, as he was in 2022 en route to World Cup glory. Since then, he moved to Liverpool and won the Premier League last season. Mac Allister is capable of popping up and scoring a huge goal while also dictating the game on the ball. He’s one of the best center midfielders in the world.
"If it’s one game in a World Cup to win, I want that guy on my team. He’s a World Cup winner, a Premier League winner. He’s a gamer. He can flick the light switch and be a baller." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
71.
Rafael Leão | Forward | Portugal
(Getty Images)
Age: 26
National team appearances: 43
Club team: AC Milan (Italy)
When Leão is fit and in form, few attackers in the world are better. Consistency has been the issue for the Portugal attacker, who has only scored five goals in 43 games for the national team. If he’s in form, Leão could be an X-factor capable of pushing Portugal over the top this summer.
70.
Ismaïla Sarr | Forward | Senegal
(Photo by Franco Arland/Getty Images)
Age: 28
National team appearances: 82
Club team: Crystal Palace (England)
Sarr played all 38 games in the Premier League for Crystal Palace last season, during which the South London club also won the FA Cup. Sarr has made 83 appearances for Senegal and will be one of the go-to guys for his country this summer, alongside teammate Sadio Mané.
69.
Mike Maignan | Goalkeeper | France
Photo by Andrew Katsampes/ISI Photos via Getty Images)
Age: 30
National team appearances: 38
Club team: AC Milan (Italy)
Hugo Lloris retired from international play after the 2022 World Cup, and Maignan stepped in and hasn’t given the job up. Maignan is one of the best shot-stopping goalkeepers in the world and is firmly entrenched as AC Milan’s starter. He will be one of the best last lines of defense for a French squad that will be one of the most talented in World Cup history.
68.
João Pedro | Forward | Brazil
(Photo by Roger Wimmer/ISI Photos via Getty Images)
Age: 24
National team appearances: 8
Club team: Chelsea (England)
Brazil has been looking for a definitive No. 9 in its lineup for years, and Pedro might be the answer. After two impressive seasons at Brighton, he has 14 Premier League goals for Chelsea this season. He’ll likely be the focal point of Brazil’s attack this summer, which puts a lot on his shoulders for the perennial contender.
"He’s a guy that’s very dynamic on the ball. He can run in behind, he likes to drop underneath and hold the ball up. You have someone that needs to say, ‘I’m going to be that guy that scores goals for Brazil,’ and I think João Pedro has the ability to do that." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
67.
William Saliba | Defender | France
(Photo by Catherine Steenkeste/Getty Images)
Age: 25
National team appearances: 31
Club team: Arsenal (England)
Since beginning his Arsenal career in 2022, Saliba has become one of the best defenders in the world. He’s an impressive athlete who was part of the French team that made it to the 2022 World Cup final. He’ll be one of the first names on the team sheet for Les Bleus this summer.
"They call him the Rolls-Royce, Mr. William Saliba. The guy does ooze class. He plays with a certain level of composure as a center back. He wins his one-on-one duels. He’s very strong, competitive and physical." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
66.
Marquinhos | Defender | Brazil
(Photo by Richard Callis/Sports Press Photo/Getty Images)
Age: 31
National team appearances: 104
Club team: Paris Saint-Germain (France)
At 31 years old, Marquinhos has already played 104 times for his country. He has been widely considered one of the best defenders in the world for the past decade, having played more than 500 games for PSG since arriving in 2013. The 31-year-old is still playing at a high level and will be wearing the captain’s armband for Brazil this summer.
"Marquinhos is going to have to be big with the injury to Militão." — Alexi Lalas, FOX Sports analyst
65.
Pau Cubarsí | Defender | Spain
(Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images)
Age: 19
National team appearances: 11
Club team: Barcelona (Spain)
Cubarsí turned 19 in January and has already played 125 times for Barcelona. He’s less established for Spain, having only made 11 appearances for the national team. There is a lot of competition for spots in the Spanish defense, and it would not surprise anyone if Cubarsí was in the lineup for the team’s World Cup opener against Cape Verde on June 15.
64.
Alisson | Goalkeeper | Brazil
(Photo by Heuler Andrey/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)
Age: 33
National team appearances: 76
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Part of what makes Alisson one of the best goalkeepers in the world is his ability with his feet. He may be the best passer at his position in world soccer. His problem in past years has been staying on the pitch, as he’s missed at least 10 Premier League games in each of the last three seasons. When he’s between the posts, though, he’s still one of the world’s best for both club and country.
63.
Ibrahima Konaté | Defender | France
(Photo by Stephen Nadler/ISI Photos via Getty Images)
Age: 26
National team appearances: 27
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Konaté ranks just higher than Saliba, who he’ll likely partner in the middle of the French defense this summer. He’s one of the most physically imposing defenders in the world at 6-foot-4, and he also has the pace to stay with any attacker in the tournament.
62.
Joško Gvardiol | Defender | Croatia
(Photo by Stefan Ivanovic/Pixsell/MB Media/Getty Images)
Age: 24
National team appearances: 46
Club team: Manchester City (England)
Gvardiol is the most expensive defender in soccer history, having cost Manchester City $105 million back in 2023. He has been injured for much of this season, but he’s one of the best passing defenders in the world. While Luka Modrić runs the Croatian midfield, Gvardiol will command the defense.
61.
Cody Gakpo | Forward | Netherlands
(Photo by Stefan Koops/EYE4IMAGES/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Age: 26
National team appearances: 48
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Gakpo will be the key player in the Netherlands’ attack this summer, especially with news that his Oranje teammate Xavi Simons tore his ACL late in the season for Tottenham. Gakpo has emerged as a key playmaker for Liverpool and can play anywhere in attack. He’ll need to be at his best wherever he plays if the Dutch are going to contend this summer.
"When he gets to the World Cup and big tournaments, he starts to get hot and score goals. He broke onto the scene at the 2022 World Cup. He’s got a lot of ability running at players, and it gets a little frantic, but he’s streaky. He can score goals. Tons of talent." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
60.
Fermin López | Midfielder | Spain
(Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images)
Age: 22
National team appearances: 7
Club team: Barcelona (Spain)
López is the perfect example of the impressive depth that Spain has in midfield. He has made more than 120 appearances for Barcelona over the past three seasons, but he might not come close to cracking the starting lineup. López is more than capable of scoring and creating goals and will be a key player for Spain this summer, regardless of whether he starts games.
59.
Mohamed Salah | Forward | Egypt
(Photo by Abdel Majid BZIOUAT / AFP) (Photo by ABDEL MAJID BZIOUAT/AFP via Getty Images)
Age: 33
National team appearances: 113
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Salah is lower on this list than he would have a couple of years ago. He is no longer in the conversation as one of the best players in the world, but he’ll still be the go-to guy for Egypt this summer. Salah’s post-World Cup future is up in the air, as he will be leaving Liverpool, but he’s Egypt’s main hope to make any noise this summer.
"For a guy that’s done so much in his career, this is a massive opportunity. When you talk about legacy and what you want to leave behind at club and national team level, for Mo Salah, if you can guide your team into the knockout round of the World Cup, it just adds to the legend. I love the chance that he has at this World Cup to really cement who he is both at club and national team level." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
58.
Ryan Gravenberch | Midfielder | Netherlands
(Photo by Stefan Koops/EYE4IMAGES/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Age: 23
National team appearances: 25
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Gravenberch moved to Liverpool in 2023 after an uneventful season at Bayern Munich, and he has established himself as an elite defensive midfielder. He was a key player last season when Liverpool won the Premier League and has remained a fixture in the Reds’ midfield.
57.
Scott McTominay | Midfielder | Scotland
(Photo by Alan Harvey/SNS Group via Getty Images)
Age: 29
National team appearances: 69
Club team: Napoli (Italy)
McTominay went from Manchester United outcast to Napoli legend in his first season in Italy. He was the Serie A Player of the Season with Napoli winning the league in 2025. McTominay has also scored big goals for his country and will be Scotland’s key man in the middle this summer. If the Scots score a big goal or get a big result, chances are McTominay will be a big reason why.
"The amount of respect he has gotten in Serie A, and again this year with Napoli — he’s physically so tall, so fast, strong and powerful. He can score goals, he can assist. He’s a top-30 player in the world right now, Scott McTominay, for sure. Not even a question." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
56.
Willian Pacho | Defender | Ecuador
(Photo by Marcel van Dorst/EYE4IMAGES/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Age: 24
National team appearances: 34
Club team: Paris Saint-Germain (France)
Pacho broke out last season for PSG, cementing his spot in the middle of the French champions’ defense. From there, he starred en route to Champions League glory. He’ll partner Arsenal’s Piero Hincapíe in the middle of Ecuador’s back four, which on paper might be one of the stronger units in the field.
"Ecuador is my dark horse, and they’re going to make a run in this tournament built off being strong defensively. William Pacho being at center back plays a massive role in that equation." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
55.
Martin Ødegaard | Midfielder | Norway
(Photo by Adam Escada/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 67
Club team: Arsenal (England)
Two years ago, Ødegaard was considered one of the top play-making midfielders in the world. His last two seasons at Arsenal have been ravaged by injuries, though, so he hasn’t been able to regain that form. He’ll be the key playmaker for Norway this summer with the goal of feeding strikers Erling Haaland and Alexander Sørloth.
"He’s had so many injuries this season at club level. At his best, this guy is a top-10 chance-maker in the world — his creativity, his weight of the final pass, his vision to see the final pass. But as of late, it’s kind of been stop-start. It’s going to be him and Erling Haaland that really steer this ship and determine the fortunes for how far Norway can go." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
54.
Enzo Fernández | Midfielder | Argentina
(Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images)
Age: 25
National team appearances: 40
Club team: Chelsea (England)
Fernández broke out during Argentina’s run to World Cup glory in 2022 and made a move to Chelsea one month after lifting the trophy. He’s an all-action midfielder who can cover every blade of grass and is capable of popping up with a big goal when necessary. He’ll be the key man in Argentina’s midfield this summer.
53.
Nico Williams | Forward | Spain
(Photo by Ahmad Mora - UEFA via Getty Images)
Age: 23
National team appearances: 30
Club team: Athletic Club Bilbao (Spain)
Williams was a star during Spain’s run two years ago at the Euros, but he hasn’t ascended at the club level since then. He has limitless potential and will be a key attacking option for Spain this summer. Whether he’s a starter or is doing so off the bench remains to be seen.
"In the Euros, he was unplayable. Nobody could stop him." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
52.
Martín Zubimendi | Midfielder | Spain
(Photo by Levan Verdzeuli/Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 25
Club team: Arsenal (England)
When Rodri got hurt in the first half of the Euro 2024 final against England, Zubimendi stepped in at halftime and helped lead Spain to victory. If healthy, Rodri is likely to start over Zubimendi, but the Arsenal midfielder provides plenty of stability off the bench when necessary.
"When I see him for Spain, I see a freer version of Zubimendi, and I think that’s where he is a little bit better because he can get around the field a little bit more. He can read the spaces, and there are different types of combinations and a little bit more free-flowing attacking play. I think we see a better version of him with Spain than we do at Arsenal." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
"This summer, based on the health, the fitness and the form of Rodri, he will have a significant role to play for Spain. I still look at Zubimendi — he’s a top player. Quality on the ball, quality in the way that he sees the game. He’s just got to get back to being at his very best." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
51.
Sadio Mané | Forward | Senegal
(Photo by PATRICK MEINHARDT/AFP via Getty Images)
Age: 34
National team appearances: 124
Club team: Al-Nassr (Saudi Arabia)
Mané just turned 34, so his best days might be behind him, but he could definitely still be an impact player this summer. He is Senegal’s all-time leading goalscorer, and he’s five appearances behind teammate Idrissa Gueye’s 131 for the most in the history of the national team.
"He’s going to be so important for Senegal. In his day, this guy was a phenomenal player — 120 goals from 2016 to 2022 for Liverpool." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
2026 FIFA World Cup Top 100 Players: Nos. 50-26
50.
Marc Cucurella | Defender | Spain
(Photo by David Ramirez/Soccrates/Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 23
Club team: Chelsea (England)
While players have come and gone at Chelsea over the past few years, Cucurella has been one constant presence. He’ll enter the World Cup having played more than 100 games over the past two seasons for the Blues, all since starting for Spain en route to the Euro 2024 crown two years ago.
100.
Pervis Estupiñán | Defender | Ecuador
(Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
Age: 28
National team appearances: 52
Club team: AC Milan (Italy)
Estupiñán thrived in the Premier League for three seasons with Brighton before making a move to AC Milan last summer. He is one of the impressive talents that make Ecuador a potential sleeper this summer.
99.
Alexander Isak | Forward | Sweden
(Photo by JONATHAN NACKSTRAND/AFP via Getty Images)
Age: 26
National team appearances: 56
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Isak scored 52 goals in his last two seasons at Newcastle before making a big-money move to Liverpool last summer. Injuries have limited him to just four goals and 21 games this season, but he is a constant threat to score whenever he’s on the pitch.
"This is a guy who shows he oozes quality in the final third. He’s a guy that can be a threat in behind, he can link up play, but more than anything else, he’s a finisher." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
98.
Kim Min-jae | Defender | South Korea
(Photo by Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images)
Age: 29
National team appearances: 77
Club team: Bayern Munich (Germany)
Kim won Serie A with Napoli in 2023 before making a big move to Bayern Munich. He hasn’t established himself as a first-choice player for the German giants, but he will be a pillar in the Korean defense this summer.
"When we redo this, maybe at the end of the tournament, and we look back, we might say, ‘I can’t believe we had Kim only at 98,’ when he comes out as one of the great center backs of the tournament." — Alexi Lalas, FOX Sports Analyst
97.
Bradley Barcola | Forward | France
(Photo by Catherine Steenkeste/Getty Images)
Age: 23
National team appearances: 18
Club team: Paris Saint-Germain (France)
Barcola is one of the hugely talented French attacking players who will be vying for a starting spot. At 22 years old, Barcola is one of the best young wingers in the world and plays at PSG, which won last season’s UEFA Champions League.
96.
Lisandro Martínez | Defender | Argentina
(Photo by Daniel Jayo/Getty Images)
Age: 28
National team appearances: 26
Club team: Manchester United (England)
Martínez would start at center back for most teams in this tournament, but he’s likely going to start as the third option behind Cristian Romero and Nicolas Otamendi, who started during Argentina’s winning run in 2022. He can fill in at left back, as well, and will play a role somehow for the reigning champions.
95.
Phil Foden | Forward | England
(Photo by Michael Regan - The FA/The FA via Getty Images)
Age: 25
National team appearances: 49
Club team: Manchester City (England)
Foden was the Premier League Player of the Season in 2023-24, but he has not built off that honor. At 25 years old, he is yet to find his footing and establish a spot in the England team.
94.
Kaoru Mitoma | Forward | Japan
(Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)
Age: 28
National team appearances: 31
Club team: Brighton (England)
Mitoma is an exciting winger who broke out two years ago for Brighton. He scored the winning goal for Japan back on March 31 in a friendly against England and will be the key player in attack for his country this summer.
Editor's note: Mitoma will miss the World Cup due to a hamstring injury on May 9.
93.
Marcus Thuram | Forward | France
(Photo by Antonio Borga/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)
Age: 28
National team appearances: 33
Club team: Inter Milan (Italy)
Kylian Mbappé will likely lead France’s attack at the start of the tournament, but Thuram is a very good alternative. Son of former France star Lilian Thuram, Marcus has scored at least 12 Serie A goals in each of his first three seasons at Inter Milan.
92.
Mikel Oyarzabal | Forward | Spain
(Photo by Manuel Queimadelos/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images)
Age: 29
National team appearances: 52
Club team: Real Sociedad (Spain)
A winger by trade for Real Sociedad, Oyarzabal has stepped up as a striker for the national team in the past. The best example was in the Euro 2024 final, when he scored the winning goal for Spain against England.
"Just an absolute baller. I think he should be so much higher than 92. He’s so underrated. He’s 29 years old, and he’s played in six finals in his career. Do you know in how many of those finals he has scored? All six. He’s scored in every final that he has played in." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
91.
Gonçalo Ramos | Forward | Portugal
(Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)
Age: 24
National team appearances: 24
Club team: Paris Saint-Germain (France)
Ramos famously replaced Cristiano Ronaldo in the Portugal lineup for a Round of 16 game against Switzerland at the 2022 World Cup and scored a hat trick. Ronaldo will likely start the tournament up front for Portugal, but Ramos is one of the best backup strikers you’ll see this summer.
90.
Raúl Jiménez | Forward | Mexico
(Photo by Yair Gonzalez/Jam Media/Getty Images)
Age: 34
National team appearances: 125
Club team: Fulham (England)
Jiménez is a fixture in the Fulham starting lineup and will be the main man for Mexico this summer. With 44 goals for El Tri, he’s two goals behind former striker Jared Borgetti for second most all time.
"The pressure that’s going to be on his shoulders will be incredibly heavy." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
89.
Kenan Yıldız | Forward | Türkiye
(Photo by Hakan Akgun/Anadolu via Getty Images)
Age: 20
National team appearances: 28
Club team: Juventus (Italy)
Yıldız broke into the Juventus lineup three years ago and quickly became a focal point of the team’s attack. At 20 years old, he has already made 28 appearances for Türkiye.
"He is a guy that, at any moment, can change a game." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
88.
Eberechi Eze | Forward | England
(Photo by Michael Regan - The FA/The FA via Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 16
Club team: Arsenal (England)
Eze made a huge move to Arsenal last summer and immediately became a big part of Mikel Arteta's squad. He normally plays an attacking role, but he could push for the spot in England's midfield that is usually occupied by Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham.
87.
Mikel Merino | Midfielder | Spain
(Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images)
Age: 29
National team appearances: 41
Club team: Arsenal (England)
Merino is unlikely to start for Spain, but he'll still probably play a big role. He scored eight goals in 10 appearances last year for the reigning European champions. A midfielder by trade, Merino has also played as a striker for both club and country.
86.
Casemiro | Midfielder | Brazil
(Photo by Stephen Nadler/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images)
Age: 34
National team appearances: 84
Club team: Manchester United (England)
Casemiro is a four-time Champions League winner at Real Madrid, but he hasn’t maintained his high level of quality since moving to Manchester United in 2022. His former Real Madrid manager, Carlo Ancelotti, is now in charge of Brazil and brought the midfielder back to the national team last year.
"Have you watched Casemiro this season? He’s having a renaissance. He’s been flying. Brazil is going to need him with some of the injuries they’re picking up now." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
85.
Fabián Ruiz | Midfielder | Spain
(Photo by Fran Santiago - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images)
Age: 30
National team appearances: 41
Club team: Paris Saint-Germain (France)
Ruiz was part of PSG’s dominant midfield trio last year that powered the team’s Champions League victory. Spain’s midfield is loaded with talent, so it won’t be as easy for him to find a spot in the starting lineup.
84.
Marc Guéhi | Defender | England
(Photo by David Balogh - The FA/The FA via Getty Images)
Age: 25
National team appearances: 27
Club team: Manchester City (England)
Guéhi was the captain for Crystal Palace last summer when the South London club won the FA Cup. He moved to Manchester City earlier this year and has immediately become a fixture in the reigning Premier League champion’s defense.
83.
Jeremie Frimpong | Defender | Netherlands
(Photo by Rico Brouwer/Soccrates/Getty Images)
Age: 25
National team appearances: 15
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Frimpong is listed as a defender, but he’s as important to the Dutch attack as he is to its defense. He has impressive pace and is a constant threat down the right wing when he’s on the pitch.
82.
Reece James | Defender | England
(Photo by Jack Thomas - The FA/The FA via Getty Images)
Age: 26
National team appearances: 22
Club team: Chelsea (England)
James will be an important player for England this summer with versatility to play either right back or midfield. Staying healthy has been James’ problem at Chelsea, although he has played in more than two dozen games in the Premier League this season.
81.
Son Heung-min | Forward | South Korea
(Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
Age: 33
National team appearances: 143
Club team: LAFC (United States)
Son is in the middle of his first full season in Los Angeles after a decade in the Premier League with Tottenham Hotspur. He’s South Korea’s all-time leader in national team appearances.
"He’s struggling a little bit at the start of the season from a goals perspective. But I still think when it comes to South Korea, when it comes to big games, I don’t worry for a second." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
80.
Jules Koundé | Defender | France
(Photo by Franco Arland/Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 46
Club team: Barcelona (Spain)
Koundé will likely start at right back for the French, who are among the favorites this summer. He has made at least 40 appearances in each of the last four seasons for Barcelona.
79.
Christian Pulisic | Forward | United States
(Photo by Robin Alam/ISI Photos via Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 84
Club team: AC Milan (Italy)
"Captain America" will have all eyes on him this summer. At 27 years old, Pulisic has already made 84 appearances for the U.S. national team. His 32 goals are 25 behind Landon Donovan and Clint Dempsey. Pulisic has not scored for the U.S. since November 2024, so he’ll need to regain his form if the Americans want to make a run into the knockout round.
"On talent alone, Pulisic is a top-40 player in the world." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
78.
Arda Güler | Forward | Türkiye
(Photo by Hakan Akgun/Anadolu via Getty Images)
Age: 21
National team appearances: 28
Club team: Real Madrid (Spain)
Güler is finishing up his third season at Real Madrid and has emerged as a key player in the squad. He will be the main man for Türkiye for years to come, starting with this summer’s World Cup.
"[Güler] and Kenan Yıldız are going to play a big part for Türkiye in this World Cup. Playing at Real Madrid, there’s a certain level of not just quality that you need to have, but personality — being able to handle the weight of that shirt. And now, when you put on that Türkiye jersey as well, we’ve seen him deliver. At such a young age, we have seen him take that responsibility." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
77.
Viktor Gyökeres | Forward | Sweden
(Photo by Sebastian Frej/Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 32
Club team: Arsenal (England)
Gyökeres scored a memorable hat trick against Poland in the UEFA World Cup playoffs in March, including one in the 87th minute to seal a 3-2 win. He moved to Arsenal last summer and has 18 goals in all competitions.
76.
Dani Olmo | Forward | Spain
(Photo by Luciano Lima/Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 48
Club team: Barcelona (Spain)
Olmo emerged as a key player for Spain at Euro 2024. He scored three goals — finishing in a six-way tie for the Golden Boot — including one in the quarterfinal and semifinal against Germany and France, respectively.
2026 FIFA World Cup Top 100 Players: Nos. 75-51
75.
João Cancelo | Defender | Portugal
(Photo by Agustin Cuevas/Getty Images)
Age: 31
National team appearances: 66
Club team: Barcelona (Spain), on loan from Al-Hilal
Few defenders will be important attackers for their countries this summer, but Cancelo is one of them. The right back has impressive pace that makes him a threat down the wing. He has 12 goals in 66 appearances for Portugal, which is a very good rate for a defender.
74.
Gabriel Martinelli | Forward | Brazil
(Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images)
Age: 24
National team appearances: 22
Club team: Arsenal (England)
Martinelli will be a key player for Brazil this summer. He has struggled to establish a starting spot on the left wing because of Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo, but his pace means he will be a key contributor this summer. He only has one Premier League goal for Arsenal this season, so he isn’t in the best form right now.
73.
Weston McKennie | Midfielder | United States
(Photo by Shaun Clark/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 64
Club team: Juventus (Italy)
McKennie is the highest-rated American player on this list, having established himself as a fixture in Juventus’ lineup. He has played at least 34 games in Italy’s Serie A in each of the last three seasons and has been all over the field — in defense at fullback, in midfield and as an attacker. McKennie can do it all, which the United States may need him to do this summer if it makes a run through the knockout stages. If the Americans are playing, expect to see a lot of McKennie.
"Ever since he came into the national team, when he’s on the pitch, the team has a different kind of bounce to them. He’s expressive in everything he does, whether that’s attacking play in the final third or being on the opposite end defending and tracking back. One of the beautiful things about him is that he’s so adaptable. To me, he’s growing into being probably the most important player on this team." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
"The guy is a baller. I would say he’s having the most impressive season of his career. The most important thing is, now he’s playing further forward up the field, and he’s shown that he can score goals and create assists." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
72.
Alexis Mac Allister | Midfielder | Argentina
(Photo by Matias Baglietto/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 44
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Mac Allister will be a key presence in the Argentina midfield this summer, as he was in 2022 en route to World Cup glory. Since then, he moved to Liverpool and won the Premier League last season. Mac Allister is capable of popping up and scoring a huge goal while also dictating the game on the ball. He’s one of the best center midfielders in the world.
"If it’s one game in a World Cup to win, I want that guy on my team. He’s a World Cup winner, a Premier League winner. He’s a gamer. He can flick the light switch and be a baller." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
71.
Rafael Leão | Forward | Portugal
(Getty Images)
Age: 26
National team appearances: 43
Club team: AC Milan (Italy)
When Leão is fit and in form, few attackers in the world are better. Consistency has been the issue for the Portugal attacker, who has only scored five goals in 43 games for the national team. If he’s in form, Leão could be an X-factor capable of pushing Portugal over the top this summer.
70.
Ismaïla Sarr | Forward | Senegal
(Photo by Franco Arland/Getty Images)
Age: 28
National team appearances: 82
Club team: Crystal Palace (England)
Sarr played all 38 games in the Premier League for Crystal Palace last season, during which the South London club also won the FA Cup. Sarr has made 83 appearances for Senegal and will be one of the go-to guys for his country this summer, alongside teammate Sadio Mané.
69.
Mike Maignan | Goalkeeper | France
Photo by Andrew Katsampes/ISI Photos via Getty Images)
Age: 30
National team appearances: 38
Club team: AC Milan (Italy)
Hugo Lloris retired from international play after the 2022 World Cup, and Maignan stepped in and hasn’t given the job up. Maignan is one of the best shot-stopping goalkeepers in the world and is firmly entrenched as AC Milan’s starter. He will be one of the best last lines of defense for a French squad that will be one of the most talented in World Cup history.
68.
João Pedro | Forward | Brazil
(Photo by Roger Wimmer/ISI Photos via Getty Images)
Age: 24
National team appearances: 8
Club team: Chelsea (England)
Brazil has been looking for a definitive No. 9 in its lineup for years, and Pedro might be the answer. After two impressive seasons at Brighton, he has 14 Premier League goals for Chelsea this season. He’ll likely be the focal point of Brazil’s attack this summer, which puts a lot on his shoulders for the perennial contender.
"He’s a guy that’s very dynamic on the ball. He can run in behind, he likes to drop underneath and hold the ball up. You have someone that needs to say, ‘I’m going to be that guy that scores goals for Brazil,’ and I think João Pedro has the ability to do that." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
67.
William Saliba | Defender | France
(Photo by Catherine Steenkeste/Getty Images)
Age: 25
National team appearances: 31
Club team: Arsenal (England)
Since beginning his Arsenal career in 2022, Saliba has become one of the best defenders in the world. He’s an impressive athlete who was part of the French team that made it to the 2022 World Cup final. He’ll be one of the first names on the team sheet for Les Bleus this summer.
"They call him the Rolls-Royce, Mr. William Saliba. The guy does ooze class. He plays with a certain level of composure as a center back. He wins his one-on-one duels. He’s very strong, competitive and physical." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
66.
Marquinhos | Defender | Brazil
(Photo by Richard Callis/Sports Press Photo/Getty Images)
Age: 31
National team appearances: 104
Club team: Paris Saint-Germain (France)
At 31 years old, Marquinhos has already played 104 times for his country. He has been widely considered one of the best defenders in the world for the past decade, having played more than 500 games for PSG since arriving in 2013. The 31-year-old is still playing at a high level and will be wearing the captain’s armband for Brazil this summer.
"Marquinhos is going to have to be big with the injury to Militão." — Alexi Lalas, FOX Sports analyst
65.
Pau Cubarsí | Defender | Spain
(Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images)
Age: 19
National team appearances: 11
Club team: Barcelona (Spain)
Cubarsí turned 19 in January and has already played 125 times for Barcelona. He’s less established for Spain, having only made 11 appearances for the national team. There is a lot of competition for spots in the Spanish defense, and it would not surprise anyone if Cubarsí was in the lineup for the team’s World Cup opener against Cape Verde on June 15.
64.
Alisson | Goalkeeper | Brazil
(Photo by Heuler Andrey/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)
Age: 33
National team appearances: 76
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Part of what makes Alisson one of the best goalkeepers in the world is his ability with his feet. He may be the best passer at his position in world soccer. His problem in past years has been staying on the pitch, as he’s missed at least 10 Premier League games in each of the last three seasons. When he’s between the posts, though, he’s still one of the world’s best for both club and country.
63.
Ibrahima Konaté | Defender | France
(Photo by Stephen Nadler/ISI Photos via Getty Images)
Age: 26
National team appearances: 27
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Konaté ranks just higher than Saliba, who he’ll likely partner in the middle of the French defense this summer. He’s one of the most physically imposing defenders in the world at 6-foot-4, and he also has the pace to stay with any attacker in the tournament.
62.
Joško Gvardiol | Defender | Croatia
(Photo by Stefan Ivanovic/Pixsell/MB Media/Getty Images)
Age: 24
National team appearances: 46
Club team: Manchester City (England)
Gvardiol is the most expensive defender in soccer history, having cost Manchester City $105 million back in 2023. He has been injured for much of this season, but he’s one of the best passing defenders in the world. While Luka Modrić runs the Croatian midfield, Gvardiol will command the defense.
61.
Cody Gakpo | Forward | Netherlands
(Photo by Stefan Koops/EYE4IMAGES/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Age: 26
National team appearances: 48
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Gakpo will be the key player in the Netherlands’ attack this summer, especially with news that his Oranje teammate Xavi Simons tore his ACL late in the season for Tottenham. Gakpo has emerged as a key playmaker for Liverpool and can play anywhere in attack. He’ll need to be at his best wherever he plays if the Dutch are going to contend this summer.
"When he gets to the World Cup and big tournaments, he starts to get hot and score goals. He broke onto the scene at the 2022 World Cup. He’s got a lot of ability running at players, and it gets a little frantic, but he’s streaky. He can score goals. Tons of talent." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
60.
Fermin López | Midfielder | Spain
(Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images)
Age: 22
National team appearances: 7
Club team: Barcelona (Spain)
López is the perfect example of the impressive depth that Spain has in midfield. He has made more than 120 appearances for Barcelona over the past three seasons, but he might not come close to cracking the starting lineup. López is more than capable of scoring and creating goals and will be a key player for Spain this summer, regardless of whether he starts games.
59.
Mohamed Salah | Forward | Egypt
(Photo by Abdel Majid BZIOUAT / AFP) (Photo by ABDEL MAJID BZIOUAT/AFP via Getty Images)
Age: 33
National team appearances: 113
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Salah is lower on this list than he would have a couple of years ago. He is no longer in the conversation as one of the best players in the world, but he’ll still be the go-to guy for Egypt this summer. Salah’s post-World Cup future is up in the air, as he will be leaving Liverpool, but he’s Egypt’s main hope to make any noise this summer.
"For a guy that’s done so much in his career, this is a massive opportunity. When you talk about legacy and what you want to leave behind at club and national team level, for Mo Salah, if you can guide your team into the knockout round of the World Cup, it just adds to the legend. I love the chance that he has at this World Cup to really cement who he is both at club and national team level." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
58.
Ryan Gravenberch | Midfielder | Netherlands
(Photo by Stefan Koops/EYE4IMAGES/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Age: 23
National team appearances: 25
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Gravenberch moved to Liverpool in 2023 after an uneventful season at Bayern Munich, and he has established himself as an elite defensive midfielder. He was a key player last season when Liverpool won the Premier League and has remained a fixture in the Reds’ midfield.
57.
Scott McTominay | Midfielder | Scotland
(Photo by Alan Harvey/SNS Group via Getty Images)
Age: 29
National team appearances: 69
Club team: Napoli (Italy)
McTominay went from Manchester United outcast to Napoli legend in his first season in Italy. He was the Serie A Player of the Season with Napoli winning the league in 2025. McTominay has also scored big goals for his country and will be Scotland’s key man in the middle this summer. If the Scots score a big goal or get a big result, chances are McTominay will be a big reason why.
"The amount of respect he has gotten in Serie A, and again this year with Napoli — he’s physically so tall, so fast, strong and powerful. He can score goals, he can assist. He’s a top-30 player in the world right now, Scott McTominay, for sure. Not even a question." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
56.
Willian Pacho | Defender | Ecuador
(Photo by Marcel van Dorst/EYE4IMAGES/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Age: 24
National team appearances: 34
Club team: Paris Saint-Germain (France)
Pacho broke out last season for PSG, cementing his spot in the middle of the French champions’ defense. From there, he starred en route to Champions League glory. He’ll partner Arsenal’s Piero Hincapíe in the middle of Ecuador’s back four, which on paper might be one of the stronger units in the field.
"Ecuador is my dark horse, and they’re going to make a run in this tournament built off being strong defensively. William Pacho being at center back plays a massive role in that equation." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
55.
Martin Ødegaard | Midfielder | Norway
(Photo by Adam Escada/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 67
Club team: Arsenal (England)
Two years ago, Ødegaard was considered one of the top play-making midfielders in the world. His last two seasons at Arsenal have been ravaged by injuries, though, so he hasn’t been able to regain that form. He’ll be the key playmaker for Norway this summer with the goal of feeding strikers Erling Haaland and Alexander Sørloth.
"He’s had so many injuries this season at club level. At his best, this guy is a top-10 chance-maker in the world — his creativity, his weight of the final pass, his vision to see the final pass. But as of late, it’s kind of been stop-start. It’s going to be him and Erling Haaland that really steer this ship and determine the fortunes for how far Norway can go." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
54.
Enzo Fernández | Midfielder | Argentina
(Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images)
Age: 25
National team appearances: 40
Club team: Chelsea (England)
Fernández broke out during Argentina’s run to World Cup glory in 2022 and made a move to Chelsea one month after lifting the trophy. He’s an all-action midfielder who can cover every blade of grass and is capable of popping up with a big goal when necessary. He’ll be the key man in Argentina’s midfield this summer.
53.
Nico Williams | Forward | Spain
(Photo by Ahmad Mora - UEFA via Getty Images)
Age: 23
National team appearances: 30
Club team: Athletic Club Bilbao (Spain)
Williams was a star during Spain’s run two years ago at the Euros, but he hasn’t ascended at the club level since then. He has limitless potential and will be a key attacking option for Spain this summer. Whether he’s a starter or is doing so off the bench remains to be seen.
"In the Euros, he was unplayable. Nobody could stop him." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
52.
Martín Zubimendi | Midfielder | Spain
(Photo by Levan Verdzeuli/Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 25
Club team: Arsenal (England)
When Rodri got hurt in the first half of the Euro 2024 final against England, Zubimendi stepped in at halftime and helped lead Spain to victory. If healthy, Rodri is likely to start over Zubimendi, but the Arsenal midfielder provides plenty of stability off the bench when necessary.
"When I see him for Spain, I see a freer version of Zubimendi, and I think that’s where he is a little bit better because he can get around the field a little bit more. He can read the spaces, and there are different types of combinations and a little bit more free-flowing attacking play. I think we see a better version of him with Spain than we do at Arsenal." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
"This summer, based on the health, the fitness and the form of Rodri, he will have a significant role to play for Spain. I still look at Zubimendi — he’s a top player. Quality on the ball, quality in the way that he sees the game. He’s just got to get back to being at his very best." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
51.
Sadio Mané | Forward | Senegal
(Photo by PATRICK MEINHARDT/AFP via Getty Images)
Age: 34
National team appearances: 124
Club team: Al-Nassr (Saudi Arabia)
Mané just turned 34, so his best days might be behind him, but he could definitely still be an impact player this summer. He is Senegal’s all-time leading goalscorer, and he’s five appearances behind teammate Idrissa Gueye’s 131 for the most in the history of the national team.
"He’s going to be so important for Senegal. In his day, this guy was a phenomenal player — 120 goals from 2016 to 2022 for Liverpool." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
2026 FIFA World Cup Top 100 Players: Nos. 50-26
50.
Marc Cucurella | Defender | Spain
(Photo by David Ramirez/Soccrates/Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 23
Club team: Chelsea (England)
While players have come and gone at Chelsea over the past few years, Cucurella has been one constant presence. He’ll enter the World Cup having played more than 100 games over the past two seasons for the Blues, all since starting for Spain en route to the Euro 2024 crown two years ago.
100.
Pervis Estupiñán | Defender | Ecuador
(Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
Age: 28
National team appearances: 52
Club team: AC Milan (Italy)
Estupiñán thrived in the Premier League for three seasons with Brighton before making a move to AC Milan last summer. He is one of the impressive talents that make Ecuador a potential sleeper this summer.
99.
Alexander Isak | Forward | Sweden
(Photo by JONATHAN NACKSTRAND/AFP via Getty Images)
Age: 26
National team appearances: 56
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Isak scored 52 goals in his last two seasons at Newcastle before making a big-money move to Liverpool last summer. Injuries have limited him to just four goals and 21 games this season, but he is a constant threat to score whenever he’s on the pitch.
"This is a guy who shows he oozes quality in the final third. He’s a guy that can be a threat in behind, he can link up play, but more than anything else, he’s a finisher." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
98.
Kim Min-jae | Defender | South Korea
(Photo by Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images)
Age: 29
National team appearances: 77
Club team: Bayern Munich (Germany)
Kim won Serie A with Napoli in 2023 before making a big move to Bayern Munich. He hasn’t established himself as a first-choice player for the German giants, but he will be a pillar in the Korean defense this summer.
"When we redo this, maybe at the end of the tournament, and we look back, we might say, ‘I can’t believe we had Kim only at 98,’ when he comes out as one of the great center backs of the tournament." — Alexi Lalas, FOX Sports Analyst
97.
Bradley Barcola | Forward | France
(Photo by Catherine Steenkeste/Getty Images)
Age: 23
National team appearances: 18
Club team: Paris Saint-Germain (France)
Barcola is one of the hugely talented French attacking players who will be vying for a starting spot. At 22 years old, Barcola is one of the best young wingers in the world and plays at PSG, which won last season’s UEFA Champions League.
96.
Lisandro Martínez | Defender | Argentina
(Photo by Daniel Jayo/Getty Images)
Age: 28
National team appearances: 26
Club team: Manchester United (England)
Martínez would start at center back for most teams in this tournament, but he’s likely going to start as the third option behind Cristian Romero and Nicolas Otamendi, who started during Argentina’s winning run in 2022. He can fill in at left back, as well, and will play a role somehow for the reigning champions.
95.
Phil Foden | Forward | England
(Photo by Michael Regan - The FA/The FA via Getty Images)
Age: 25
National team appearances: 49
Club team: Manchester City (England)
Foden was the Premier League Player of the Season in 2023-24, but he has not built off that honor. At 25 years old, he is yet to find his footing and establish a spot in the England team.
94.
Kaoru Mitoma | Forward | Japan
(Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)
Age: 28
National team appearances: 31
Club team: Brighton (England)
Mitoma is an exciting winger who broke out two years ago for Brighton. He scored the winning goal for Japan back on March 31 in a friendly against England and will be the key player in attack for his country this summer.
Editor's note: Mitoma will miss the World Cup due to a hamstring injury on May 9.
93.
Marcus Thuram | Forward | France
(Photo by Antonio Borga/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)
Age: 28
National team appearances: 33
Club team: Inter Milan (Italy)
Kylian Mbappé will likely lead France’s attack at the start of the tournament, but Thuram is a very good alternative. Son of former France star Lilian Thuram, Marcus has scored at least 12 Serie A goals in each of his first three seasons at Inter Milan.
92.
Mikel Oyarzabal | Forward | Spain
(Photo by Manuel Queimadelos/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images)
Age: 29
National team appearances: 52
Club team: Real Sociedad (Spain)
A winger by trade for Real Sociedad, Oyarzabal has stepped up as a striker for the national team in the past. The best example was in the Euro 2024 final, when he scored the winning goal for Spain against England.
"Just an absolute baller. I think he should be so much higher than 92. He’s so underrated. He’s 29 years old, and he’s played in six finals in his career. Do you know in how many of those finals he has scored? All six. He’s scored in every final that he has played in." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
91.
Gonçalo Ramos | Forward | Portugal
(Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)
Age: 24
National team appearances: 24
Club team: Paris Saint-Germain (France)
Ramos famously replaced Cristiano Ronaldo in the Portugal lineup for a Round of 16 game against Switzerland at the 2022 World Cup and scored a hat trick. Ronaldo will likely start the tournament up front for Portugal, but Ramos is one of the best backup strikers you’ll see this summer.
90.
Raúl Jiménez | Forward | Mexico
(Photo by Yair Gonzalez/Jam Media/Getty Images)
Age: 34
National team appearances: 125
Club team: Fulham (England)
Jiménez is a fixture in the Fulham starting lineup and will be the main man for Mexico this summer. With 44 goals for El Tri, he’s two goals behind former striker Jared Borgetti for second most all time.
"The pressure that’s going to be on his shoulders will be incredibly heavy." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
89.
Kenan Yıldız | Forward | Türkiye
(Photo by Hakan Akgun/Anadolu via Getty Images)
Age: 20
National team appearances: 28
Club team: Juventus (Italy)
Yıldız broke into the Juventus lineup three years ago and quickly became a focal point of the team’s attack. At 20 years old, he has already made 28 appearances for Türkiye.
"He is a guy that, at any moment, can change a game." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
88.
Eberechi Eze | Forward | England
(Photo by Michael Regan - The FA/The FA via Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 16
Club team: Arsenal (England)
Eze made a huge move to Arsenal last summer and immediately became a big part of Mikel Arteta's squad. He normally plays an attacking role, but he could push for the spot in England's midfield that is usually occupied by Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham.
87.
Mikel Merino | Midfielder | Spain
(Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images)
Age: 29
National team appearances: 41
Club team: Arsenal (England)
Merino is unlikely to start for Spain, but he'll still probably play a big role. He scored eight goals in 10 appearances last year for the reigning European champions. A midfielder by trade, Merino has also played as a striker for both club and country.
86.
Casemiro | Midfielder | Brazil
(Photo by Stephen Nadler/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images)
Age: 34
National team appearances: 84
Club team: Manchester United (England)
Casemiro is a four-time Champions League winner at Real Madrid, but he hasn’t maintained his high level of quality since moving to Manchester United in 2022. His former Real Madrid manager, Carlo Ancelotti, is now in charge of Brazil and brought the midfielder back to the national team last year.
"Have you watched Casemiro this season? He’s having a renaissance. He’s been flying. Brazil is going to need him with some of the injuries they’re picking up now." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
85.
Fabián Ruiz | Midfielder | Spain
(Photo by Fran Santiago - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images)
Age: 30
National team appearances: 41
Club team: Paris Saint-Germain (France)
Ruiz was part of PSG’s dominant midfield trio last year that powered the team’s Champions League victory. Spain’s midfield is loaded with talent, so it won’t be as easy for him to find a spot in the starting lineup.
84.
Marc Guéhi | Defender | England
(Photo by David Balogh - The FA/The FA via Getty Images)
Age: 25
National team appearances: 27
Club team: Manchester City (England)
Guéhi was the captain for Crystal Palace last summer when the South London club won the FA Cup. He moved to Manchester City earlier this year and has immediately become a fixture in the reigning Premier League champion’s defense.
83.
Jeremie Frimpong | Defender | Netherlands
(Photo by Rico Brouwer/Soccrates/Getty Images)
Age: 25
National team appearances: 15
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Frimpong is listed as a defender, but he’s as important to the Dutch attack as he is to its defense. He has impressive pace and is a constant threat down the right wing when he’s on the pitch.
82.
Reece James | Defender | England
(Photo by Jack Thomas - The FA/The FA via Getty Images)
Age: 26
National team appearances: 22
Club team: Chelsea (England)
James will be an important player for England this summer with versatility to play either right back or midfield. Staying healthy has been James’ problem at Chelsea, although he has played in more than two dozen games in the Premier League this season.
81.
Son Heung-min | Forward | South Korea
(Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
Age: 33
National team appearances: 143
Club team: LAFC (United States)
Son is in the middle of his first full season in Los Angeles after a decade in the Premier League with Tottenham Hotspur. He’s South Korea’s all-time leader in national team appearances.
"He’s struggling a little bit at the start of the season from a goals perspective. But I still think when it comes to South Korea, when it comes to big games, I don’t worry for a second." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
80.
Jules Koundé | Defender | France
(Photo by Franco Arland/Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 46
Club team: Barcelona (Spain)
Koundé will likely start at right back for the French, who are among the favorites this summer. He has made at least 40 appearances in each of the last four seasons for Barcelona.
79.
Christian Pulisic | Forward | United States
(Photo by Robin Alam/ISI Photos via Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 84
Club team: AC Milan (Italy)
"Captain America" will have all eyes on him this summer. At 27 years old, Pulisic has already made 84 appearances for the U.S. national team. His 32 goals are 25 behind Landon Donovan and Clint Dempsey. Pulisic has not scored for the U.S. since November 2024, so he’ll need to regain his form if the Americans want to make a run into the knockout round.
"On talent alone, Pulisic is a top-40 player in the world." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
78.
Arda Güler | Forward | Türkiye
(Photo by Hakan Akgun/Anadolu via Getty Images)
Age: 21
National team appearances: 28
Club team: Real Madrid (Spain)
Güler is finishing up his third season at Real Madrid and has emerged as a key player in the squad. He will be the main man for Türkiye for years to come, starting with this summer’s World Cup.
"[Güler] and Kenan Yıldız are going to play a big part for Türkiye in this World Cup. Playing at Real Madrid, there’s a certain level of not just quality that you need to have, but personality — being able to handle the weight of that shirt. And now, when you put on that Türkiye jersey as well, we’ve seen him deliver. At such a young age, we have seen him take that responsibility." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
77.
Viktor Gyökeres | Forward | Sweden
(Photo by Sebastian Frej/Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 32
Club team: Arsenal (England)
Gyökeres scored a memorable hat trick against Poland in the UEFA World Cup playoffs in March, including one in the 87th minute to seal a 3-2 win. He moved to Arsenal last summer and has 18 goals in all competitions.
76.
Dani Olmo | Forward | Spain
(Photo by Luciano Lima/Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 48
Club team: Barcelona (Spain)
Olmo emerged as a key player for Spain at Euro 2024. He scored three goals — finishing in a six-way tie for the Golden Boot — including one in the quarterfinal and semifinal against Germany and France, respectively.
2026 FIFA World Cup Top 100 Players: Nos. 75-51
75.
João Cancelo | Defender | Portugal
(Photo by Agustin Cuevas/Getty Images)
Age: 31
National team appearances: 66
Club team: Barcelona (Spain), on loan from Al-Hilal
Few defenders will be important attackers for their countries this summer, but Cancelo is one of them. The right back has impressive pace that makes him a threat down the wing. He has 12 goals in 66 appearances for Portugal, which is a very good rate for a defender.
74.
Gabriel Martinelli | Forward | Brazil
(Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images)
Age: 24
National team appearances: 22
Club team: Arsenal (England)
Martinelli will be a key player for Brazil this summer. He has struggled to establish a starting spot on the left wing because of Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo, but his pace means he will be a key contributor this summer. He only has one Premier League goal for Arsenal this season, so he isn’t in the best form right now.
73.
Weston McKennie | Midfielder | United States
(Photo by Shaun Clark/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 64
Club team: Juventus (Italy)
McKennie is the highest-rated American player on this list, having established himself as a fixture in Juventus’ lineup. He has played at least 34 games in Italy’s Serie A in each of the last three seasons and has been all over the field — in defense at fullback, in midfield and as an attacker. McKennie can do it all, which the United States may need him to do this summer if it makes a run through the knockout stages. If the Americans are playing, expect to see a lot of McKennie.
"Ever since he came into the national team, when he’s on the pitch, the team has a different kind of bounce to them. He’s expressive in everything he does, whether that’s attacking play in the final third or being on the opposite end defending and tracking back. One of the beautiful things about him is that he’s so adaptable. To me, he’s growing into being probably the most important player on this team." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
"The guy is a baller. I would say he’s having the most impressive season of his career. The most important thing is, now he’s playing further forward up the field, and he’s shown that he can score goals and create assists." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
72.
Alexis Mac Allister | Midfielder | Argentina
(Photo by Matias Baglietto/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 44
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Mac Allister will be a key presence in the Argentina midfield this summer, as he was in 2022 en route to World Cup glory. Since then, he moved to Liverpool and won the Premier League last season. Mac Allister is capable of popping up and scoring a huge goal while also dictating the game on the ball. He’s one of the best center midfielders in the world.
"If it’s one game in a World Cup to win, I want that guy on my team. He’s a World Cup winner, a Premier League winner. He’s a gamer. He can flick the light switch and be a baller." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
71.
Rafael Leão | Forward | Portugal
(Getty Images)
Age: 26
National team appearances: 43
Club team: AC Milan (Italy)
When Leão is fit and in form, few attackers in the world are better. Consistency has been the issue for the Portugal attacker, who has only scored five goals in 43 games for the national team. If he’s in form, Leão could be an X-factor capable of pushing Portugal over the top this summer.
70.
Ismaïla Sarr | Forward | Senegal
(Photo by Franco Arland/Getty Images)
Age: 28
National team appearances: 82
Club team: Crystal Palace (England)
Sarr played all 38 games in the Premier League for Crystal Palace last season, during which the South London club also won the FA Cup. Sarr has made 83 appearances for Senegal and will be one of the go-to guys for his country this summer, alongside teammate Sadio Mané.
69.
Mike Maignan | Goalkeeper | France
Photo by Andrew Katsampes/ISI Photos via Getty Images)
Age: 30
National team appearances: 38
Club team: AC Milan (Italy)
Hugo Lloris retired from international play after the 2022 World Cup, and Maignan stepped in and hasn’t given the job up. Maignan is one of the best shot-stopping goalkeepers in the world and is firmly entrenched as AC Milan’s starter. He will be one of the best last lines of defense for a French squad that will be one of the most talented in World Cup history.
68.
João Pedro | Forward | Brazil
(Photo by Roger Wimmer/ISI Photos via Getty Images)
Age: 24
National team appearances: 8
Club team: Chelsea (England)
Brazil has been looking for a definitive No. 9 in its lineup for years, and Pedro might be the answer. After two impressive seasons at Brighton, he has 14 Premier League goals for Chelsea this season. He’ll likely be the focal point of Brazil’s attack this summer, which puts a lot on his shoulders for the perennial contender.
"He’s a guy that’s very dynamic on the ball. He can run in behind, he likes to drop underneath and hold the ball up. You have someone that needs to say, ‘I’m going to be that guy that scores goals for Brazil,’ and I think João Pedro has the ability to do that." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
67.
William Saliba | Defender | France
(Photo by Catherine Steenkeste/Getty Images)
Age: 25
National team appearances: 31
Club team: Arsenal (England)
Since beginning his Arsenal career in 2022, Saliba has become one of the best defenders in the world. He’s an impressive athlete who was part of the French team that made it to the 2022 World Cup final. He’ll be one of the first names on the team sheet for Les Bleus this summer.
"They call him the Rolls-Royce, Mr. William Saliba. The guy does ooze class. He plays with a certain level of composure as a center back. He wins his one-on-one duels. He’s very strong, competitive and physical." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
66.
Marquinhos | Defender | Brazil
(Photo by Richard Callis/Sports Press Photo/Getty Images)
Age: 31
National team appearances: 104
Club team: Paris Saint-Germain (France)
At 31 years old, Marquinhos has already played 104 times for his country. He has been widely considered one of the best defenders in the world for the past decade, having played more than 500 games for PSG since arriving in 2013. The 31-year-old is still playing at a high level and will be wearing the captain’s armband for Brazil this summer.
"Marquinhos is going to have to be big with the injury to Militão." — Alexi Lalas, FOX Sports analyst
65.
Pau Cubarsí | Defender | Spain
(Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images)
Age: 19
National team appearances: 11
Club team: Barcelona (Spain)
Cubarsí turned 19 in January and has already played 125 times for Barcelona. He’s less established for Spain, having only made 11 appearances for the national team. There is a lot of competition for spots in the Spanish defense, and it would not surprise anyone if Cubarsí was in the lineup for the team’s World Cup opener against Cape Verde on June 15.
64.
Alisson | Goalkeeper | Brazil
(Photo by Heuler Andrey/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)
Age: 33
National team appearances: 76
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Part of what makes Alisson one of the best goalkeepers in the world is his ability with his feet. He may be the best passer at his position in world soccer. His problem in past years has been staying on the pitch, as he’s missed at least 10 Premier League games in each of the last three seasons. When he’s between the posts, though, he’s still one of the world’s best for both club and country.
63.
Ibrahima Konaté | Defender | France
(Photo by Stephen Nadler/ISI Photos via Getty Images)
Age: 26
National team appearances: 27
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Konaté ranks just higher than Saliba, who he’ll likely partner in the middle of the French defense this summer. He’s one of the most physically imposing defenders in the world at 6-foot-4, and he also has the pace to stay with any attacker in the tournament.
62.
Joško Gvardiol | Defender | Croatia
(Photo by Stefan Ivanovic/Pixsell/MB Media/Getty Images)
Age: 24
National team appearances: 46
Club team: Manchester City (England)
Gvardiol is the most expensive defender in soccer history, having cost Manchester City $105 million back in 2023. He has been injured for much of this season, but he’s one of the best passing defenders in the world. While Luka Modrić runs the Croatian midfield, Gvardiol will command the defense.
61.
Cody Gakpo | Forward | Netherlands
(Photo by Stefan Koops/EYE4IMAGES/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Age: 26
National team appearances: 48
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Gakpo will be the key player in the Netherlands’ attack this summer, especially with news that his Oranje teammate Xavi Simons tore his ACL late in the season for Tottenham. Gakpo has emerged as a key playmaker for Liverpool and can play anywhere in attack. He’ll need to be at his best wherever he plays if the Dutch are going to contend this summer.
"When he gets to the World Cup and big tournaments, he starts to get hot and score goals. He broke onto the scene at the 2022 World Cup. He’s got a lot of ability running at players, and it gets a little frantic, but he’s streaky. He can score goals. Tons of talent." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
60.
Fermin López | Midfielder | Spain
(Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images)
Age: 22
National team appearances: 7
Club team: Barcelona (Spain)
López is the perfect example of the impressive depth that Spain has in midfield. He has made more than 120 appearances for Barcelona over the past three seasons, but he might not come close to cracking the starting lineup. López is more than capable of scoring and creating goals and will be a key player for Spain this summer, regardless of whether he starts games.
59.
Mohamed Salah | Forward | Egypt
(Photo by Abdel Majid BZIOUAT / AFP) (Photo by ABDEL MAJID BZIOUAT/AFP via Getty Images)
Age: 33
National team appearances: 113
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Salah is lower on this list than he would have a couple of years ago. He is no longer in the conversation as one of the best players in the world, but he’ll still be the go-to guy for Egypt this summer. Salah’s post-World Cup future is up in the air, as he will be leaving Liverpool, but he’s Egypt’s main hope to make any noise this summer.
"For a guy that’s done so much in his career, this is a massive opportunity. When you talk about legacy and what you want to leave behind at club and national team level, for Mo Salah, if you can guide your team into the knockout round of the World Cup, it just adds to the legend. I love the chance that he has at this World Cup to really cement who he is both at club and national team level." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
58.
Ryan Gravenberch | Midfielder | Netherlands
(Photo by Stefan Koops/EYE4IMAGES/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Age: 23
National team appearances: 25
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Gravenberch moved to Liverpool in 2023 after an uneventful season at Bayern Munich, and he has established himself as an elite defensive midfielder. He was a key player last season when Liverpool won the Premier League and has remained a fixture in the Reds’ midfield.
57.
Scott McTominay | Midfielder | Scotland
(Photo by Alan Harvey/SNS Group via Getty Images)
Age: 29
National team appearances: 69
Club team: Napoli (Italy)
McTominay went from Manchester United outcast to Napoli legend in his first season in Italy. He was the Serie A Player of the Season with Napoli winning the league in 2025. McTominay has also scored big goals for his country and will be Scotland’s key man in the middle this summer. If the Scots score a big goal or get a big result, chances are McTominay will be a big reason why.
"The amount of respect he has gotten in Serie A, and again this year with Napoli — he’s physically so tall, so fast, strong and powerful. He can score goals, he can assist. He’s a top-30 player in the world right now, Scott McTominay, for sure. Not even a question." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
56.
Willian Pacho | Defender | Ecuador
(Photo by Marcel van Dorst/EYE4IMAGES/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Age: 24
National team appearances: 34
Club team: Paris Saint-Germain (France)
Pacho broke out last season for PSG, cementing his spot in the middle of the French champions’ defense. From there, he starred en route to Champions League glory. He’ll partner Arsenal’s Piero Hincapíe in the middle of Ecuador’s back four, which on paper might be one of the stronger units in the field.
"Ecuador is my dark horse, and they’re going to make a run in this tournament built off being strong defensively. William Pacho being at center back plays a massive role in that equation." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
55.
Martin Ødegaard | Midfielder | Norway
(Photo by Adam Escada/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 67
Club team: Arsenal (England)
Two years ago, Ødegaard was considered one of the top play-making midfielders in the world. His last two seasons at Arsenal have been ravaged by injuries, though, so he hasn’t been able to regain that form. He’ll be the key playmaker for Norway this summer with the goal of feeding strikers Erling Haaland and Alexander Sørloth.
"He’s had so many injuries this season at club level. At his best, this guy is a top-10 chance-maker in the world — his creativity, his weight of the final pass, his vision to see the final pass. But as of late, it’s kind of been stop-start. It’s going to be him and Erling Haaland that really steer this ship and determine the fortunes for how far Norway can go." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
54.
Enzo Fernández | Midfielder | Argentina
(Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images)
Age: 25
National team appearances: 40
Club team: Chelsea (England)
Fernández broke out during Argentina’s run to World Cup glory in 2022 and made a move to Chelsea one month after lifting the trophy. He’s an all-action midfielder who can cover every blade of grass and is capable of popping up with a big goal when necessary. He’ll be the key man in Argentina’s midfield this summer.
53.
Nico Williams | Forward | Spain
(Photo by Ahmad Mora - UEFA via Getty Images)
Age: 23
National team appearances: 30
Club team: Athletic Club Bilbao (Spain)
Williams was a star during Spain’s run two years ago at the Euros, but he hasn’t ascended at the club level since then. He has limitless potential and will be a key attacking option for Spain this summer. Whether he’s a starter or is doing so off the bench remains to be seen.
"In the Euros, he was unplayable. Nobody could stop him." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
52.
Martín Zubimendi | Midfielder | Spain
(Photo by Levan Verdzeuli/Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 25
Club team: Arsenal (England)
When Rodri got hurt in the first half of the Euro 2024 final against England, Zubimendi stepped in at halftime and helped lead Spain to victory. If healthy, Rodri is likely to start over Zubimendi, but the Arsenal midfielder provides plenty of stability off the bench when necessary.
"When I see him for Spain, I see a freer version of Zubimendi, and I think that’s where he is a little bit better because he can get around the field a little bit more. He can read the spaces, and there are different types of combinations and a little bit more free-flowing attacking play. I think we see a better version of him with Spain than we do at Arsenal." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
"This summer, based on the health, the fitness and the form of Rodri, he will have a significant role to play for Spain. I still look at Zubimendi — he’s a top player. Quality on the ball, quality in the way that he sees the game. He’s just got to get back to being at his very best." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
51.
Sadio Mané | Forward | Senegal
(Photo by PATRICK MEINHARDT/AFP via Getty Images)
Age: 34
National team appearances: 124
Club team: Al-Nassr (Saudi Arabia)
Mané just turned 34, so his best days might be behind him, but he could definitely still be an impact player this summer. He is Senegal’s all-time leading goalscorer, and he’s five appearances behind teammate Idrissa Gueye’s 131 for the most in the history of the national team.
"He’s going to be so important for Senegal. In his day, this guy was a phenomenal player — 120 goals from 2016 to 2022 for Liverpool." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
2026 FIFA World Cup Top 100 Players: Nos. 50-26
50.
Marc Cucurella | Defender | Spain
(Photo by David Ramirez/Soccrates/Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 23
Club team: Chelsea (England)
While players have come and gone at Chelsea over the past few years, Cucurella has been one constant presence. He’ll enter the World Cup having played more than 100 games over the past two seasons for the Blues, all since starting for Spain en route to the Euro 2024 crown two years ago.
100.
Pervis Estupiñán | Defender | Ecuador
(Photo by Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images)
Age: 28
National team appearances: 52
Club team: AC Milan (Italy)
Estupiñán thrived in the Premier League for three seasons with Brighton before making a move to AC Milan last summer. He is one of the impressive talents that make Ecuador a potential sleeper this summer.
99.
Alexander Isak | Forward | Sweden
(Photo by JONATHAN NACKSTRAND/AFP via Getty Images)
Age: 26
National team appearances: 56
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Isak scored 52 goals in his last two seasons at Newcastle before making a big-money move to Liverpool last summer. Injuries have limited him to just four goals and 21 games this season, but he is a constant threat to score whenever he’s on the pitch.
"This is a guy who shows he oozes quality in the final third. He’s a guy that can be a threat in behind, he can link up play, but more than anything else, he’s a finisher." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
98.
Kim Min-jae | Defender | South Korea
(Photo by Catherine Ivill - AMA/Getty Images)
Age: 29
National team appearances: 77
Club team: Bayern Munich (Germany)
Kim won Serie A with Napoli in 2023 before making a big move to Bayern Munich. He hasn’t established himself as a first-choice player for the German giants, but he will be a pillar in the Korean defense this summer.
"When we redo this, maybe at the end of the tournament, and we look back, we might say, ‘I can’t believe we had Kim only at 98,’ when he comes out as one of the great center backs of the tournament." — Alexi Lalas, FOX Sports Analyst
97.
Bradley Barcola | Forward | France
(Photo by Catherine Steenkeste/Getty Images)
Age: 23
National team appearances: 18
Club team: Paris Saint-Germain (France)
Barcola is one of the hugely talented French attacking players who will be vying for a starting spot. At 22 years old, Barcola is one of the best young wingers in the world and plays at PSG, which won last season’s UEFA Champions League.
96.
Lisandro Martínez | Defender | Argentina
(Photo by Daniel Jayo/Getty Images)
Age: 28
National team appearances: 26
Club team: Manchester United (England)
Martínez would start at center back for most teams in this tournament, but he’s likely going to start as the third option behind Cristian Romero and Nicolas Otamendi, who started during Argentina’s winning run in 2022. He can fill in at left back, as well, and will play a role somehow for the reigning champions.
95.
Phil Foden | Forward | England
(Photo by Michael Regan - The FA/The FA via Getty Images)
Age: 25
National team appearances: 49
Club team: Manchester City (England)
Foden was the Premier League Player of the Season in 2023-24, but he has not built off that honor. At 25 years old, he is yet to find his footing and establish a spot in the England team.
94.
Kaoru Mitoma | Forward | Japan
(Photo by Visionhaus/Getty Images)
Age: 28
National team appearances: 31
Club team: Brighton (England)
Mitoma is an exciting winger who broke out two years ago for Brighton. He scored the winning goal for Japan back on March 31 in a friendly against England and will be the key player in attack for his country this summer.
Editor's note: Mitoma will miss the World Cup due to a hamstring injury on May 9.
93.
Marcus Thuram | Forward | France
(Photo by Antonio Borga/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)
Age: 28
National team appearances: 33
Club team: Inter Milan (Italy)
Kylian Mbappé will likely lead France’s attack at the start of the tournament, but Thuram is a very good alternative. Son of former France star Lilian Thuram, Marcus has scored at least 12 Serie A goals in each of his first three seasons at Inter Milan.
92.
Mikel Oyarzabal | Forward | Spain
(Photo by Manuel Queimadelos/Quality Sport Images/Getty Images)
Age: 29
National team appearances: 52
Club team: Real Sociedad (Spain)
A winger by trade for Real Sociedad, Oyarzabal has stepped up as a striker for the national team in the past. The best example was in the Euro 2024 final, when he scored the winning goal for Spain against England.
"Just an absolute baller. I think he should be so much higher than 92. He’s so underrated. He’s 29 years old, and he’s played in six finals in his career. Do you know in how many of those finals he has scored? All six. He’s scored in every final that he has played in." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
91.
Gonçalo Ramos | Forward | Portugal
(Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)
Age: 24
National team appearances: 24
Club team: Paris Saint-Germain (France)
Ramos famously replaced Cristiano Ronaldo in the Portugal lineup for a Round of 16 game against Switzerland at the 2022 World Cup and scored a hat trick. Ronaldo will likely start the tournament up front for Portugal, but Ramos is one of the best backup strikers you’ll see this summer.
90.
Raúl Jiménez | Forward | Mexico
(Photo by Yair Gonzalez/Jam Media/Getty Images)
Age: 34
National team appearances: 125
Club team: Fulham (England)
Jiménez is a fixture in the Fulham starting lineup and will be the main man for Mexico this summer. With 44 goals for El Tri, he’s two goals behind former striker Jared Borgetti for second most all time.
"The pressure that’s going to be on his shoulders will be incredibly heavy." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
89.
Kenan Yıldız | Forward | Türkiye
(Photo by Hakan Akgun/Anadolu via Getty Images)
Age: 20
National team appearances: 28
Club team: Juventus (Italy)
Yıldız broke into the Juventus lineup three years ago and quickly became a focal point of the team’s attack. At 20 years old, he has already made 28 appearances for Türkiye.
"He is a guy that, at any moment, can change a game." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
88.
Eberechi Eze | Forward | England
(Photo by Michael Regan - The FA/The FA via Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 16
Club team: Arsenal (England)
Eze made a huge move to Arsenal last summer and immediately became a big part of Mikel Arteta's squad. He normally plays an attacking role, but he could push for the spot in England's midfield that is usually occupied by Real Madrid star Jude Bellingham.
87.
Mikel Merino | Midfielder | Spain
(Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images)
Age: 29
National team appearances: 41
Club team: Arsenal (England)
Merino is unlikely to start for Spain, but he'll still probably play a big role. He scored eight goals in 10 appearances last year for the reigning European champions. A midfielder by trade, Merino has also played as a striker for both club and country.
86.
Casemiro | Midfielder | Brazil
(Photo by Stephen Nadler/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images)
Age: 34
National team appearances: 84
Club team: Manchester United (England)
Casemiro is a four-time Champions League winner at Real Madrid, but he hasn’t maintained his high level of quality since moving to Manchester United in 2022. His former Real Madrid manager, Carlo Ancelotti, is now in charge of Brazil and brought the midfielder back to the national team last year.
"Have you watched Casemiro this season? He’s having a renaissance. He’s been flying. Brazil is going to need him with some of the injuries they’re picking up now." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
85.
Fabián Ruiz | Midfielder | Spain
(Photo by Fran Santiago - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images)
Age: 30
National team appearances: 41
Club team: Paris Saint-Germain (France)
Ruiz was part of PSG’s dominant midfield trio last year that powered the team’s Champions League victory. Spain’s midfield is loaded with talent, so it won’t be as easy for him to find a spot in the starting lineup.
84.
Marc Guéhi | Defender | England
(Photo by David Balogh - The FA/The FA via Getty Images)
Age: 25
National team appearances: 27
Club team: Manchester City (England)
Guéhi was the captain for Crystal Palace last summer when the South London club won the FA Cup. He moved to Manchester City earlier this year and has immediately become a fixture in the reigning Premier League champion’s defense.
83.
Jeremie Frimpong | Defender | Netherlands
(Photo by Rico Brouwer/Soccrates/Getty Images)
Age: 25
National team appearances: 15
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Frimpong is listed as a defender, but he’s as important to the Dutch attack as he is to its defense. He has impressive pace and is a constant threat down the right wing when he’s on the pitch.
82.
Reece James | Defender | England
(Photo by Jack Thomas - The FA/The FA via Getty Images)
Age: 26
National team appearances: 22
Club team: Chelsea (England)
James will be an important player for England this summer with versatility to play either right back or midfield. Staying healthy has been James’ problem at Chelsea, although he has played in more than two dozen games in the Premier League this season.
81.
Son Heung-min | Forward | South Korea
(Photo by Marc Atkins/Getty Images)
Age: 33
National team appearances: 143
Club team: LAFC (United States)
Son is in the middle of his first full season in Los Angeles after a decade in the Premier League with Tottenham Hotspur. He’s South Korea’s all-time leader in national team appearances.
"He’s struggling a little bit at the start of the season from a goals perspective. But I still think when it comes to South Korea, when it comes to big games, I don’t worry for a second." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
80.
Jules Koundé | Defender | France
(Photo by Franco Arland/Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 46
Club team: Barcelona (Spain)
Koundé will likely start at right back for the French, who are among the favorites this summer. He has made at least 40 appearances in each of the last four seasons for Barcelona.
79.
Christian Pulisic | Forward | United States
(Photo by Robin Alam/ISI Photos via Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 84
Club team: AC Milan (Italy)
"Captain America" will have all eyes on him this summer. At 27 years old, Pulisic has already made 84 appearances for the U.S. national team. His 32 goals are 25 behind Landon Donovan and Clint Dempsey. Pulisic has not scored for the U.S. since November 2024, so he’ll need to regain his form if the Americans want to make a run into the knockout round.
"On talent alone, Pulisic is a top-40 player in the world." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
78.
Arda Güler | Forward | Türkiye
(Photo by Hakan Akgun/Anadolu via Getty Images)
Age: 21
National team appearances: 28
Club team: Real Madrid (Spain)
Güler is finishing up his third season at Real Madrid and has emerged as a key player in the squad. He will be the main man for Türkiye for years to come, starting with this summer’s World Cup.
"[Güler] and Kenan Yıldız are going to play a big part for Türkiye in this World Cup. Playing at Real Madrid, there’s a certain level of not just quality that you need to have, but personality — being able to handle the weight of that shirt. And now, when you put on that Türkiye jersey as well, we’ve seen him deliver. At such a young age, we have seen him take that responsibility." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
77.
Viktor Gyökeres | Forward | Sweden
(Photo by Sebastian Frej/Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 32
Club team: Arsenal (England)
Gyökeres scored a memorable hat trick against Poland in the UEFA World Cup playoffs in March, including one in the 87th minute to seal a 3-2 win. He moved to Arsenal last summer and has 18 goals in all competitions.
76.
Dani Olmo | Forward | Spain
(Photo by Luciano Lima/Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 48
Club team: Barcelona (Spain)
Olmo emerged as a key player for Spain at Euro 2024. He scored three goals — finishing in a six-way tie for the Golden Boot — including one in the quarterfinal and semifinal against Germany and France, respectively.
2026 FIFA World Cup Top 100 Players: Nos. 75-51
75.
João Cancelo | Defender | Portugal
(Photo by Agustin Cuevas/Getty Images)
Age: 31
National team appearances: 66
Club team: Barcelona (Spain), on loan from Al-Hilal
Few defenders will be important attackers for their countries this summer, but Cancelo is one of them. The right back has impressive pace that makes him a threat down the wing. He has 12 goals in 66 appearances for Portugal, which is a very good rate for a defender.
74.
Gabriel Martinelli | Forward | Brazil
(Photo by Julio Aguilar/Getty Images)
Age: 24
National team appearances: 22
Club team: Arsenal (England)
Martinelli will be a key player for Brazil this summer. He has struggled to establish a starting spot on the left wing because of Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo, but his pace means he will be a key contributor this summer. He only has one Premier League goal for Arsenal this season, so he isn’t in the best form right now.
73.
Weston McKennie | Midfielder | United States
(Photo by Shaun Clark/ISI Photos/ISI Photos via Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 64
Club team: Juventus (Italy)
McKennie is the highest-rated American player on this list, having established himself as a fixture in Juventus’ lineup. He has played at least 34 games in Italy’s Serie A in each of the last three seasons and has been all over the field — in defense at fullback, in midfield and as an attacker. McKennie can do it all, which the United States may need him to do this summer if it makes a run through the knockout stages. If the Americans are playing, expect to see a lot of McKennie.
"Ever since he came into the national team, when he’s on the pitch, the team has a different kind of bounce to them. He’s expressive in everything he does, whether that’s attacking play in the final third or being on the opposite end defending and tracking back. One of the beautiful things about him is that he’s so adaptable. To me, he’s growing into being probably the most important player on this team." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
"The guy is a baller. I would say he’s having the most impressive season of his career. The most important thing is, now he’s playing further forward up the field, and he’s shown that he can score goals and create assists." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
72.
Alexis Mac Allister | Midfielder | Argentina
(Photo by Matias Baglietto/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 44
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Mac Allister will be a key presence in the Argentina midfield this summer, as he was in 2022 en route to World Cup glory. Since then, he moved to Liverpool and won the Premier League last season. Mac Allister is capable of popping up and scoring a huge goal while also dictating the game on the ball. He’s one of the best center midfielders in the world.
"If it’s one game in a World Cup to win, I want that guy on my team. He’s a World Cup winner, a Premier League winner. He’s a gamer. He can flick the light switch and be a baller." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
71.
Rafael Leão | Forward | Portugal
(Getty Images)
Age: 26
National team appearances: 43
Club team: AC Milan (Italy)
When Leão is fit and in form, few attackers in the world are better. Consistency has been the issue for the Portugal attacker, who has only scored five goals in 43 games for the national team. If he’s in form, Leão could be an X-factor capable of pushing Portugal over the top this summer.
70.
Ismaïla Sarr | Forward | Senegal
(Photo by Franco Arland/Getty Images)
Age: 28
National team appearances: 82
Club team: Crystal Palace (England)
Sarr played all 38 games in the Premier League for Crystal Palace last season, during which the South London club also won the FA Cup. Sarr has made 83 appearances for Senegal and will be one of the go-to guys for his country this summer, alongside teammate Sadio Mané.
69.
Mike Maignan | Goalkeeper | France
Photo by Andrew Katsampes/ISI Photos via Getty Images)
Age: 30
National team appearances: 38
Club team: AC Milan (Italy)
Hugo Lloris retired from international play after the 2022 World Cup, and Maignan stepped in and hasn’t given the job up. Maignan is one of the best shot-stopping goalkeepers in the world and is firmly entrenched as AC Milan’s starter. He will be one of the best last lines of defense for a French squad that will be one of the most talented in World Cup history.
68.
João Pedro | Forward | Brazil
(Photo by Roger Wimmer/ISI Photos via Getty Images)
Age: 24
National team appearances: 8
Club team: Chelsea (England)
Brazil has been looking for a definitive No. 9 in its lineup for years, and Pedro might be the answer. After two impressive seasons at Brighton, he has 14 Premier League goals for Chelsea this season. He’ll likely be the focal point of Brazil’s attack this summer, which puts a lot on his shoulders for the perennial contender.
"He’s a guy that’s very dynamic on the ball. He can run in behind, he likes to drop underneath and hold the ball up. You have someone that needs to say, ‘I’m going to be that guy that scores goals for Brazil,’ and I think João Pedro has the ability to do that." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
67.
William Saliba | Defender | France
(Photo by Catherine Steenkeste/Getty Images)
Age: 25
National team appearances: 31
Club team: Arsenal (England)
Since beginning his Arsenal career in 2022, Saliba has become one of the best defenders in the world. He’s an impressive athlete who was part of the French team that made it to the 2022 World Cup final. He’ll be one of the first names on the team sheet for Les Bleus this summer.
"They call him the Rolls-Royce, Mr. William Saliba. The guy does ooze class. He plays with a certain level of composure as a center back. He wins his one-on-one duels. He’s very strong, competitive and physical." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
66.
Marquinhos | Defender | Brazil
(Photo by Richard Callis/Sports Press Photo/Getty Images)
Age: 31
National team appearances: 104
Club team: Paris Saint-Germain (France)
At 31 years old, Marquinhos has already played 104 times for his country. He has been widely considered one of the best defenders in the world for the past decade, having played more than 500 games for PSG since arriving in 2013. The 31-year-old is still playing at a high level and will be wearing the captain’s armband for Brazil this summer.
"Marquinhos is going to have to be big with the injury to Militão." — Alexi Lalas, FOX Sports analyst
65.
Pau Cubarsí | Defender | Spain
(Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images)
Age: 19
National team appearances: 11
Club team: Barcelona (Spain)
Cubarsí turned 19 in January and has already played 125 times for Barcelona. He’s less established for Spain, having only made 11 appearances for the national team. There is a lot of competition for spots in the Spanish defense, and it would not surprise anyone if Cubarsí was in the lineup for the team’s World Cup opener against Cape Verde on June 15.
64.
Alisson | Goalkeeper | Brazil
(Photo by Heuler Andrey/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)
Age: 33
National team appearances: 76
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Part of what makes Alisson one of the best goalkeepers in the world is his ability with his feet. He may be the best passer at his position in world soccer. His problem in past years has been staying on the pitch, as he’s missed at least 10 Premier League games in each of the last three seasons. When he’s between the posts, though, he’s still one of the world’s best for both club and country.
63.
Ibrahima Konaté | Defender | France
(Photo by Stephen Nadler/ISI Photos via Getty Images)
Age: 26
National team appearances: 27
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Konaté ranks just higher than Saliba, who he’ll likely partner in the middle of the French defense this summer. He’s one of the most physically imposing defenders in the world at 6-foot-4, and he also has the pace to stay with any attacker in the tournament.
62.
Joško Gvardiol | Defender | Croatia
(Photo by Stefan Ivanovic/Pixsell/MB Media/Getty Images)
Age: 24
National team appearances: 46
Club team: Manchester City (England)
Gvardiol is the most expensive defender in soccer history, having cost Manchester City $105 million back in 2023. He has been injured for much of this season, but he’s one of the best passing defenders in the world. While Luka Modrić runs the Croatian midfield, Gvardiol will command the defense.
61.
Cody Gakpo | Forward | Netherlands
(Photo by Stefan Koops/EYE4IMAGES/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Age: 26
National team appearances: 48
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Gakpo will be the key player in the Netherlands’ attack this summer, especially with news that his Oranje teammate Xavi Simons tore his ACL late in the season for Tottenham. Gakpo has emerged as a key playmaker for Liverpool and can play anywhere in attack. He’ll need to be at his best wherever he plays if the Dutch are going to contend this summer.
"When he gets to the World Cup and big tournaments, he starts to get hot and score goals. He broke onto the scene at the 2022 World Cup. He’s got a lot of ability running at players, and it gets a little frantic, but he’s streaky. He can score goals. Tons of talent." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
60.
Fermin López | Midfielder | Spain
(Photo by Diego Souto/Getty Images)
Age: 22
National team appearances: 7
Club team: Barcelona (Spain)
López is the perfect example of the impressive depth that Spain has in midfield. He has made more than 120 appearances for Barcelona over the past three seasons, but he might not come close to cracking the starting lineup. López is more than capable of scoring and creating goals and will be a key player for Spain this summer, regardless of whether he starts games.
59.
Mohamed Salah | Forward | Egypt
(Photo by Abdel Majid BZIOUAT / AFP) (Photo by ABDEL MAJID BZIOUAT/AFP via Getty Images)
Age: 33
National team appearances: 113
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Salah is lower on this list than he would have a couple of years ago. He is no longer in the conversation as one of the best players in the world, but he’ll still be the go-to guy for Egypt this summer. Salah’s post-World Cup future is up in the air, as he will be leaving Liverpool, but he’s Egypt’s main hope to make any noise this summer.
"For a guy that’s done so much in his career, this is a massive opportunity. When you talk about legacy and what you want to leave behind at club and national team level, for Mo Salah, if you can guide your team into the knockout round of the World Cup, it just adds to the legend. I love the chance that he has at this World Cup to really cement who he is both at club and national team level." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
58.
Ryan Gravenberch | Midfielder | Netherlands
(Photo by Stefan Koops/EYE4IMAGES/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Age: 23
National team appearances: 25
Club team: Liverpool (England)
Gravenberch moved to Liverpool in 2023 after an uneventful season at Bayern Munich, and he has established himself as an elite defensive midfielder. He was a key player last season when Liverpool won the Premier League and has remained a fixture in the Reds’ midfield.
57.
Scott McTominay | Midfielder | Scotland
(Photo by Alan Harvey/SNS Group via Getty Images)
Age: 29
National team appearances: 69
Club team: Napoli (Italy)
McTominay went from Manchester United outcast to Napoli legend in his first season in Italy. He was the Serie A Player of the Season with Napoli winning the league in 2025. McTominay has also scored big goals for his country and will be Scotland’s key man in the middle this summer. If the Scots score a big goal or get a big result, chances are McTominay will be a big reason why.
"The amount of respect he has gotten in Serie A, and again this year with Napoli — he’s physically so tall, so fast, strong and powerful. He can score goals, he can assist. He’s a top-30 player in the world right now, Scott McTominay, for sure. Not even a question." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
56.
Willian Pacho | Defender | Ecuador
(Photo by Marcel van Dorst/EYE4IMAGES/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
Age: 24
National team appearances: 34
Club team: Paris Saint-Germain (France)
Pacho broke out last season for PSG, cementing his spot in the middle of the French champions’ defense. From there, he starred en route to Champions League glory. He’ll partner Arsenal’s Piero Hincapíe in the middle of Ecuador’s back four, which on paper might be one of the stronger units in the field.
"Ecuador is my dark horse, and they’re going to make a run in this tournament built off being strong defensively. William Pacho being at center back plays a massive role in that equation." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
55.
Martin Ødegaard | Midfielder | Norway
(Photo by Adam Escada/Eurasia Sport Images/Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 67
Club team: Arsenal (England)
Two years ago, Ødegaard was considered one of the top play-making midfielders in the world. His last two seasons at Arsenal have been ravaged by injuries, though, so he hasn’t been able to regain that form. He’ll be the key playmaker for Norway this summer with the goal of feeding strikers Erling Haaland and Alexander Sørloth.
"He’s had so many injuries this season at club level. At his best, this guy is a top-10 chance-maker in the world — his creativity, his weight of the final pass, his vision to see the final pass. But as of late, it’s kind of been stop-start. It’s going to be him and Erling Haaland that really steer this ship and determine the fortunes for how far Norway can go." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
54.
Enzo Fernández | Midfielder | Argentina
(Photo by Marcelo Endelli/Getty Images)
Age: 25
National team appearances: 40
Club team: Chelsea (England)
Fernández broke out during Argentina’s run to World Cup glory in 2022 and made a move to Chelsea one month after lifting the trophy. He’s an all-action midfielder who can cover every blade of grass and is capable of popping up with a big goal when necessary. He’ll be the key man in Argentina’s midfield this summer.
53.
Nico Williams | Forward | Spain
(Photo by Ahmad Mora - UEFA via Getty Images)
Age: 23
National team appearances: 30
Club team: Athletic Club Bilbao (Spain)
Williams was a star during Spain’s run two years ago at the Euros, but he hasn’t ascended at the club level since then. He has limitless potential and will be a key attacking option for Spain this summer. Whether he’s a starter or is doing so off the bench remains to be seen.
"In the Euros, he was unplayable. Nobody could stop him." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
52.
Martín Zubimendi | Midfielder | Spain
(Photo by Levan Verdzeuli/Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 25
Club team: Arsenal (England)
When Rodri got hurt in the first half of the Euro 2024 final against England, Zubimendi stepped in at halftime and helped lead Spain to victory. If healthy, Rodri is likely to start over Zubimendi, but the Arsenal midfielder provides plenty of stability off the bench when necessary.
"When I see him for Spain, I see a freer version of Zubimendi, and I think that’s where he is a little bit better because he can get around the field a little bit more. He can read the spaces, and there are different types of combinations and a little bit more free-flowing attacking play. I think we see a better version of him with Spain than we do at Arsenal." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
"This summer, based on the health, the fitness and the form of Rodri, he will have a significant role to play for Spain. I still look at Zubimendi — he’s a top player. Quality on the ball, quality in the way that he sees the game. He’s just got to get back to being at his very best." — Maurice Edu, FOX Sports analyst
51.
Sadio Mané | Forward | Senegal
(Photo by PATRICK MEINHARDT/AFP via Getty Images)
Age: 34
National team appearances: 124
Club team: Al-Nassr (Saudi Arabia)
Mané just turned 34, so his best days might be behind him, but he could definitely still be an impact player this summer. He is Senegal’s all-time leading goalscorer, and he’s five appearances behind teammate Idrissa Gueye’s 131 for the most in the history of the national team.
"He’s going to be so important for Senegal. In his day, this guy was a phenomenal player — 120 goals from 2016 to 2022 for Liverpool." — Stu Holden, FOX Sports analyst
2026 FIFA World Cup Top 100 Players: Nos. 50-26
50.
Marc Cucurella | Defender | Spain
(Photo by David Ramirez/Soccrates/Getty Images)
Age: 27
National team appearances: 23
Club team: Chelsea (England)
While players have come and gone at Chelsea over the past few years, Cucurella has been one constant presence. He’ll enter the World Cup having played more than 100 games over the past two seasons for the Blues, all since starting for Spain en route to the Euro 2024 crown two years ago.
[Top 200 - Test Article - 5/20/2026]
2026 FIFA World Cup: How To Watch
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will run from June 11–July 19, 2026. Spread across three countries, the tournament will culminate with the final on July 19 at New York New Jersey Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. All 104 tournament matches will air live across FOX (70) and FS1 (34) with every match streaming live and on-demand within both the FOX One and the FOX Sports app. A record 40 matches, more than one-third of the tournament, will air in prime time across FOX (21) and FS1 (19).
The opening match on June 11 between Mexico and South Africa (3 p.m. ET) will stream for free on Tubi, as well as the USA's opening match against Paraguay on June 12 (9 p.m. ET).
Watch FIFA World Cup 2026: All 104 games on FOX One. Start your free trial today.
Your Privacy Choices | Closed Captioning 
