One World Cup player to watch from each of the five favourite teams

Excitement among football supporters is peaking with the 2026 World Cup only a few weeks away.

With more teams and more games, the summer tournament will have all the best players fighting for the sport’s biggest prize.

Here are some of the top players to watch from the five favourite teams.

Lionel Messi – Argentina

Messi is yet to confirm his participation in the World Cup, but he is expected to play for Argentina in the upcoming tournament.

The experienced forward led his nation to World Cup glory in 2022, etching his name indelibly into the history books.

Messi will turn 39 during the tournament, but age seems to have no effect on him.

He is currently leading Inter Miami’s scoring charts this season with 13 goals in 15 matches.

Mbappe is one of the best players in world football right now.

The 27-year-old has averaged almost a goal every game for Real Madrid this season.

Mbappe played a pivotal role in France’s 2018 World Cup win and was the leading goalscorer at the previous edition of the tournament in Qatar.

The centre-forward netted eight times for Les Bleus in 2022, including a brilliant hat-trick in the final against Argentina.

Kane is England’s all-time record goalscorer with 78 goals in 112 appearances.

The 32-year-old scored 36 goals to help Bayern Munich clinch their 35th Bundesliga title this season.

He will hope to continue his form to help England win their first World Cup since 1966.

Brazil’s squad is stacked with quality players, but Vinicius is their most talented star.

The Madrid forward is renowned for his explosive pace, dribbling skills and creativity.

Brazil have claimed five World Cup titles, but they haven’t won in 24 years.

With Vinicius, Raphinha and Matheus Cunha in their ranks, Brazil could go a long way this summer.

Yamal has already proven his ability for club and country.

He led Spain to the 2024 European Championship title as a 16-year-old and has also starred in high-stakes Champions League matches for Barcelona.

The exciting winger will look to guide his country to success at the 2026 World Cup.

Stats from Transfermarkt.