CNN Sports picks its players to watch at this year’s World Cup

CNN Sports Identifies Key Players to Watch at the 2026 World Cup

CNN Sports picks its players to watch – As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, the global football community is buzzing with anticipation. With 48 participating nations, each fielding a squad of up to 26 athletes, the tournament will see over 1,000 elite players competing across North America. While teams will have their own stars, history has shown that one individual often rises above the rest to define the event. From Lionel Messi’s legendary 2022 campaign to Diego Maradona’s iconic 1986 run, the World Cup has been shaped by players who leave an indelible mark. This year, CNN Sports’ experts have highlighted several contenders who could dominate the stage, each with their own unique story and potential impact.

Erling Haaland: A Force of Nature

Ben Church, a senior international sports writer, has chosen Erling Haaland of Norway as his player to watch. Despite the obviousness of the selection, Church remains confident in Haaland’s ability to steal the spotlight. The 25-year-old striker, who has already claimed the Premier League’s Golden Boot award three times in four years, brings a combination of raw power, pace, and clinical finishing to the tournament. His record-breaking performances this season—scoring 25 goals in the league—have solidified his reputation as a goal machine.

“If Haaland isn’t already the best striker in the world, then I’d argue he’s a very close second,” Church remarked. “This will be his first World Cup, and I believe he has the potential to be the standout performer of the competition.”

Church acknowledges that Norway may not be a dark horse to win the title, having secured eight qualification wins. However, he predicts the team could create significant noise in the knockout stages. “Norway’s squad has the tools to upset higher-ranked teams, and Haaland will be at the heart of that effort,” he added. The striker’s ability to adapt and thrive under pressure, paired with his unshakable confidence, makes him a compelling figure for the tournament.

Vinícius Jr.: The Brazilian Spark

Patrick Sung, CNN Sports’ international sports editor, believes Real Madrid’s Vinícius Jr. will be a game-changer for Brazil. Though the Seleção’s recent World Cup campaigns have been mixed, Sung points to Vinícius as the key to their revival. The 24-year-old has been a steady presence in Madrid’s attack, contributing 24 goals and 17 assists across all competitions this season. This marks his third consecutive campaign where he has surpassed 40 goals and assists for club and country, a testament to his consistency and growth.

“Even with Kylian Mbappé on his team, Vinícius has proven himself as a vital part of Real Madrid’s success,” Sung noted. “His combination of creativity, speed, and goal-scoring ability could make him Brazil’s most valuable asset in 2026.”

Sung also highlights the advantage of having Carlo Ancelotti as Brazil’s manager, a coach he worked closely with during his time in Madrid. “Ancelotti’s tactical insight and personal connection to Vinícius will be crucial,” he said. While Brazil’s path to glory remains uncertain, Sung believes the player’s confidence and flair will elevate the team’s performance. He also mentions Lamine Yamal, the 18-year-old Barcelona star, as a potential rising star, though the focus remains on Vinícius for now.

Kylian Mbappé: The Unstoppable Phenomenon

Emile Nuh, a CNN Sports intern, has made a bold choice by selecting Kylian Mbappé of France as his player to watch. “How is Mbappé one to watch? Who doesn’t know Mbappé?” he joked. “But regardless of his global fame, he’s the one I can’t look past for this tournament.” The 27-year-old forward has been a cornerstone of France’s attack, consistently delivering at the highest level. His record-breaking season with Paris Saint-Germain, combined with his World Cup pedigree, makes him a favorite to lead his nation to victory.

“Mbappé is the complete package—speed, skill, and a ruthless finishing touch,” Nuh emphasized. “He’s already won the Golden Ball in 2022, and I think he’ll be right back in the running this year.”

Nuh also points to Mbappé’s ability to carry the weight of expectation while maintaining his composure. “He’s the kind of player who can take the team’s performance on his shoulders,” he said. With France’s squad packed with talent, Mbappé’s leadership and scoring prowess could be decisive in the final stages. While the team’s chances are strong, the intern remains hopeful for a French triumph.

Emerging Stars and Controversial Picks

The World Cup will also feature a new generation of players, with young talents like Nico O’Reilly and Lamine Yamal poised to make their mark. O’Reilly, the 21-year-old Manchester City left-back, has been a standout performer this season, combining defensive solidity with attacking flair. “He’s one of the most composed defenders I’ve seen in years,” Church said. “If he’s on the pitch, England’s chances of progressing will be significantly boosted.”

Yamal, the 18-year-old Barcelona prodigy, is another name on the radar. As a Madridista, Church admits it’s tough to ignore the young star, but he also emphasizes his role for Spain. “If Yamal plays at his peak, La Roja could rewrite their World Cup history,” he predicted. While Yamal’s inclusion in the final squad is a given, his performance will be critical in determining Spain’s fate.

Despite the strong lineup, some picks may spark debate. Mbappé’s inclusion, while popular, is not without controversy. “People might question why he’s still on the list, but his track record speaks for itself,” Nuh explained. “He’s not just a top scorer—he’s a leader, a playmaker, and a finisher.”

The Road to Glory

With so many talents competing, the 2026 World Cup promises to be a thrilling spectacle. From Haaland’s debut to Mbappé’s veteran campaign, the tournament will showcase a range of styles and strategies. While some teams may be favorites, underdogs like Norway and Spain could rise through the ranks with the right performances. The stage is set for a new era of football, and the players highlighted here are the ones who could shape it.

As the competition unfolds, fans will have plenty to watch. Whether it’s the explosive runs of Vinícius Jr., the clinical efficiency of Haaland, or the dominance of Mbappé, the World Cup will be a showcase of the sport’s brightest stars. The next few weeks will determine who steps up to take center stage, but one thing is certain: these players will leave a lasting impression on the global stage.