Five big stars with a point to prove during the international break

Club football is taking a hiatus for a three-week international break. 

The 2026/27 UEFA Nations League starts on Thursday and features several exciting matches. 

Read on as we look at five players to watch during the international break. 

Cristiano Ronaldo 

Ronaldo faced heavy criticism for his performances at the summer World Cup, where Portugal’s journey ended against Spain in the last-16. 

Many people were unhappy with the forward’s reduced mobility and minimal defensive contribution.  

Despite the criticism, Jorge Jesus, who coached him at Al-Nassr last season, has included Ronaldo in the national team squad. 

The 41-year-old is desperate to prove he still deserves a place in the team by performing well in the Nations League.  

Florian Wirtz 

Wirtz was touted as a world-class superstar who would take Liverpool to the next level. 

The 23-year-old is now into his second season after a £116 million move, and the fans are yet to see the best of him.

Manager Andoni Iraola continues to back Wirtz, but some fans want him dropped from the starting XI. 

The former Bayer Leverkusen star will look to find some form for Germany during the international break. 

Sandro Tonali 

Tonali has made a slow start to life at Tottenham Hotspur following his £100m move from Newcastle United this summer. 

He has started all five Premier League games, and Spurs have not won any of them. 

Tonali will look to return to his best when he plays for Italy, who failed to qualify for their third straight World Cup finals this year. 

The 26-year-old is one of Italy’s top players, having made nine direct goal contributions in 32 appearances. 

Trent Alexander-Arnold 

Alexander-Arnold was a notable omission from England’s World Cup squad this summer.

Manager Thomas Tuchel has now recalled him. 

The 27-year-old has an opportunity to impress Tuchel by producing an excellent display in the Nations League.  

He has not been a guaranteed starter for Real Madrid this season, but he has played well when called upon. 

Lewis Hall 

Lewis Hall was also snubbed for the World Cup squad despite his consistent performances for Newcastle United. 

The 22-year-old has been recalled, and he now has a point to prove. 

Hall was a key target for Manchester United in the summer transfer window, but Newcastle firmly refused to entertain offers for him.

He has recently signed a bumper new five-year contract at St James’ Park until 2031. 

Stats from Transfermarkt.