The 2026 World Cup is still a year away, but the buzz is already building around the tournament. With the expanded format, 48 teams will be competing, promising an exciting and unpredictable event. As we look ahead, it's fascinating to consider the players who might be overlooked or underappreciated, yet still have a chance to shine. Here's an XI of players who have yet to be given a minute by their respective quarter-finalists, but could still make an impact on the tournament.
Goalkeeper: David Raya (Spain)
Raya has been a standout performer for Arsenal, but his international career has been somewhat underwhelming. Despite being considered one of the best goalkeepers in the world by many, he has struggled to secure a starting spot for Spain. The Spanish manager, Luis de la Fuente, has cited Raya's quality and experience, but his lack of recent competitive minutes for his nation is a concern. It's a puzzle as to why Raya, who excels at club level, hasn't been given more opportunities to prove himself on the international stage.
Right-back: Zakaria El Ouahdi (Morocco)
El Ouahdi, a talented defender from Genk, has yet to be called upon by the Atlas Lions. His potential was once questioned due to his father's beard, but he has since proven his worth. With an Olympics bronze and U23 Africa Cup of Nations winner's medal, El Ouahdi has shown his capabilities. However, he finds himself in a competitive position with Achraf Hakimi, making his chances of starting for Morocco uncertain.
Centre-back: Trevoh Chalobah (England)
Chalobah's inclusion in the England squad was met with skepticism, as he was neither a natural nor popular choice. His role was to free up other players, but his position in the squad remains uncertain. If he does manage to secure a World Cup debut, he'll need to follow in the footsteps of Dan Burn, who achieved national treasure status by throwing himself in the way of any moving object.
Centre-half: Koni De Winter (Belgium)
De Winter, a 24-year-old centre-back, has struggled to find a place in the Belgium defense. While he has only just completed his third full top-flight season, his chances at AC Milan might be jeopardized by the appointment of Ruben Amorim as manager. De Winter will need to quickly adapt to playing in a back three if he wants to secure a spot in the World Cup squad.
Left-back: Lucas Hernandez (France)
Hernandez, a world champion, has been on the periphery of the French team due to injuries and competition. Despite missing just 40 minutes of France's successful 2018 campaign, he has been used to a seat on the sidelines. With his brother Theo starting games for Al-Hilal, Lucas has been made to wait patiently. His versatility and experience make him a valuable asset, but he'll need to find a way to break into the starting XI.
Right-winger: Victor Munoz (Spain)
Munoz, a versatile winger, has been a key player for Liverpool, but his international career has been somewhat underwhelming. With the likes of Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, and Mikel Oyarzabal in the Spanish squad, Munoz finds himself in a competitive position. His natural position on the left might not be best served under Diego Simeone, but his apprenticeship in the dark arts could add a new dimension to his game.
Central midfielder: N'Golo Kante (France)
Kante's return to the France squad was met with excitement, but his tournament record is somewhat curious. Despite being a substitute at Euro 2016 and a key player in 2018, he was among the disappointments at Euro 2021 and injured for the 2022 World Cup. An injury to Aurelien Tchouameni and Manu Kone's suspension could bring Kante back to the party for the quarter-final against Morocco. His experience and work rate make him a valuable asset, but he'll need to prove himself in the remaining games.
Central midfielder: Warren Zaire-Emery (France)
Zaire-Emery, a 20-year-old phenomenon, has played the most minutes for Paris Saint-Germain this season. However, Didier Deschamps has his favorites, and Zaire-Emery's 11 caps have come in friendlies and qualifiers. His bench role at Euro 2024 has been met with frustration, and he's willing to fill in wherever needed. History seems to be repeating itself, as he was an unused substitute throughout Euro 2024. His Manchester United move might be in doubt, but his talent is undeniable.
Central midfielder: Martin Zubimendi (Spain)
Zubimendi, a Premier League champion in his debut season, finds himself behind Rodri in the international pecking order. Despite having a more hands-on role at Euro 2024, his moment in the Americas is yet to come. Spain's skewed supply-and-demand chain for elite midfielders makes his situation even more challenging. Zubimendi's exceptional vision and role as a mentality merchant make him a valuable asset, but he'll need to find a way to break into the starting XI.
Left-winger: Alex Grimaldo (Spain)
Grimaldo, a versatile left-winger, has been a key player for Bayer Leverkusen and Atletico Madrid. His proclivity to go forward might not be best served under Diego Simeone, but his apprenticeship in the dark arts could add a new dimension to his game. With Marc Cucurella in the squad, Grimaldo will need to find a way to stand out and prove his worth.
Centre-forward: Ivan Toney (England)
Toney's inclusion in the England squad was a surprise, but Thomas Tuchel seemed stunned by the decision. His role in the final might become clear when the scores are level in the 119th minute. Toney's versatility and goal-scoring abilities make him a valuable asset, but he'll need to prove himself in the remaining games to secure a starting spot.
In my opinion, this XI of players who have yet to be given a minute by their respective quarter-finalists could still make a significant impact on the 2026 World Cup. Their talent, experience, and unique skill sets make them a force to be reckoned with. It will be fascinating to see how they perform and whether they can secure a spot in the starting XI for their respective nations.
