Potential World Cup breakout stars: Argentina’s Paz, Brazil’s Endrick and more

The 2026 World Cup will be a tournament full of talents and world stars that will shine for more than a month. However, it won’t be only about Lamine Yamal, Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo or Jude Bellingham. There are also hundreds of talented players eager to make their mark and prove they belong among the game’s biggest stars, with the World Cup offering the perfect stage to showcase their abilities and take the next step in their careers, as we famously saw with Colombia’s James Rodriguez back in 2014, earning his big-money move to Real Madrid.

Let’s take a look at 26 potential breakout stars of the 2026 World Cup that is about to start:

26) Martin Baturina, Croatia

Martin Baturina

CRO • M • #16

The Croatian midfielder is one of the biggest talents of the side coached by Zlatko Dalic. After his move to Como in the summer of 2025 from Dinamo Zagreb, he, alongside Inter midfielder Petar Sucic, is widely considered the future of the national team as Luka Modric is set to play his last ever World Cup. The 23-year-old attacking midfielder has already attracted the interests of multiple clubs around Europe but Como have no intention to sell him this summer, especially after clinching a historic Champions League qualification.

25) Dan Ndoye, Switzerland

Dan Ndoye

SUI • F • #11

The Swiss attacking winger moved to the Premier League in the summer of 2025 when Nottingham Forest paid around $40 million to sign him from Bologna. He’s not the classic version of a winger, but a player who can move around the attacking area and occasionally play as a central striker, if needed. His first season in the Premier League was affected by the poor performances of his team, especially in the first part of the season. The World Cup could provide the perfect platform for him to showcase his talent.

24) Takefusa Kubo, Japan

Takefusa Kubo

JPN • F • #8

The Japanese winger, who also grew up in the youth academy of Barcelona, is one of the stars of Real Sociedad in Spain and the World Cup might become another step in his career. Japan are an interesting team and can become one of the underdogs to watch this summer, and Takefusa Kubo is probably the most exciting of their talents.

23) Kerim Alajbegovic, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Kerim Alajbegovic

BIH • F • #19

The Bosnian midfielder was one of the secrets of this team that made it to the World Cup after beating Italy in the European playoffs in March. He has already attracted the interest of multiple Italian clubs, and according to the latest reports, both AS Roma and Napoli are expected to enter the race to sign him this summer. Kerim Alajbegovic brings to this national team creativity, pace and talent.

22) Valentin Barco, Argentina

Valentin Barco

ARG • D • #8

Lionel Scaloni decided to call most of the Argentinian national team squad that in 2022 won the historical World Cup in Qatar on penalties against France, but there were some new faces, and among them there is Valentin Barco, who has already agreed to join Chelsea starting from next season after the left central midfielder signed for Strasbourg, under the same ownership as Chelsea, in 2025, from Brighton.

21) Kendry Paez, Ecuador

Kendry Paez

ECU • M • #10

Talking about talents and Chelsea, the English team signed Kendry Paez in the summer 2023 when he was only 16-year old for around $20 million before loaning him out to Strasbourg and then River Plate. The attacking midfielder, born in 2007, has to be included in the top talents of the summer tournament, where he will represent Ecuador, where they will try to replicate the success of 2006, when they clinched the top 16.

20) Andreas Schjelderup, Norway

Andreas Schjelderup

NOR • F • #21

The Norwegian national team is one of the teams with the most talent and players that can shine at the tournament. We all know Erling Haaland and Martin Odegaard, while Andreas Schjelderup might be less known, but he’s one to watch. Since joining Benfica in the summer of 2023, he was initially sent out on loan before reestablishing himself in Portugal. This season has been his best so far, as he scored eight goals in 38 appearances across all competitions. Now, he is ready to make an impact on the international stage with his national team as well.

19) Lucas Bergvall, Sweden

Lucas Bergvall

SWE • M • #7

The Tottenham midfielder, born in 2006, will lead the Swedish national team coached by former Chelsea head coach Graham Potter, and he’s definitely a player to watch — someone that can make his name also outside the English team. With Tottenham struggling to meet expectations, the World Cup could provide him with the perfect stage to showcase his talent to a global audience.

18) Kobbie Mainoo, England

Kobbie Mainoo

ENG • M • #16

What a story and what a season he just had. The English midfielder was one step away from leaving Old Trafford earlier under Ruben Amorim, but since Michael Carrick took over, everything has changed. He became a Manchester United starter, he signed a new deal and was called up by Thomas Tuchel for the World Cup.

17) Donyell Malen, Netherlands

Donyell Malen

NED • F • #18

He made an incredible impact at AS Roma since he joined in January 2026, helping the side coached by Gian Piero Gasperini to clinch a Champions League spot, and the Italian team were happy to trigger the buyout clause from Aston Villa. He will represent the Netherlands at this summer’s World Cup, where they are considered one of the tournament’s dark horses.

16) Nico O’Reilly, England

Nico O’Reilly

ENG • D • #3

Khaldoon Khalifa Al Mubarak, Manchester City chairman, said in a recent interview he considered O’Reilly the best player of the season for the Citizens and there was no surprise he was called by Tuchel to represent the Three Lions at the World Cup. He’s a smart and adaptable defender who can play in multiple positions.

15) Pau Cubarsi, Spain

Pau Pau Cubarsi

ESP • D • #22

The Barcelona defender is a starter for both the team coached by Hansi Flick and the national team. The 19-year-old, despite his young age, is already a key player and one of the best defenders around. The World Cup is just the next step in his successful career.

14) Ismael Saibari, Morocco

Ismael Saibari

MAR • M • #11

After an outstanding season with PSV, during which he won the league title, he scored 15 goals and established himself as a key player. He is now on the verge of joining Bayern Munich this summer. On the international stage, he will represent Morocco, one of the strongest teams at the World Cup that will face Scotland, Brazil and Haiti in the group stage.

13) Ferran Torres, Spain

Ferran Torres

ESP • F • #7

The Barcelona striker was one of the surprises of the season with Barca, scoring some crucial goals both in the Spanish LaLiga and in the Champions League. At the end of the season, he has scored a total of 20 goals across all competitions, and he can become a key player also for Luis de la Fuente thanks to his versatility upfront.

12) Jeremy Doku, Belgium

Jeremy Doku

BEL • F • #11

The Manchester City winger will lead the attack of the Red Devils, the national team led by former Napoli coach Rudi Garcia, who will have to mix both experienced players and a new generation of talents, including Doku. He can bring pace to the sides but also provide assists to his teammates over the tournament.

11) Pedri, Spain

At 23 years old, he’s already an experienced player for his age but also a pivotal player for the midfielder of Spain. A talented squad brimming with confidence after winning UEFA Euro 2024, Spain boast an abundance of quality across the pitch. Among their standout players is Pedri, who, alongside several other key figures, provides the perfect blend of balance, vision, and creativity in midfield.

10) Kenan Yildiz, Turkiye

Kenan Yildiz

TUR • F • #11

In terms of talent, there are few teams with more than Turkiye. Among them, Juventus striker Kenan Yildiz is probably one of the best emerging attacking players around Europe. He has become a key player under Luciano Spalletti at club level, but despite his young age, there is still room for him to take the next step in his development. The World Cup could provide the perfect stage to showcase his talent on the global stage and earn the worldwide recognition his performances deserve.

9) Anthony Gordon, England

Anthony Gordon

ENG • F • #18

His name was already in the media this summer after his early move to Barcelona from Newcastle for around $70 million, one of the biggest moves of the summer. Tuchel considers him one of the best talents of the Three Lions and, for this reason, decided to include him in the 26-man squad travelling to the United States, leaving out some big names such as Cole Palmer or Phil Foden in the attack.

8) Endrick, Brazil

Endrick

BRA • F • #19

We shouldn’t forget about him. The 19-year-old who moved to Real Madrid in 2024 was included in the list of Carlo Ancelotti after a strong stint of the season on loan to Lyon, where he scored eight goals from January to May. He will be back at Real Madrid under Jose Mourinho after the World Cup, hoping to make his name also at the Bernabeu.

7) Arda Guler, Turkiye

Arda Guler

TUR • M • #8

Speaking of talents and Real Madrid, Arda Guler is one of the brightest talents at the World Cup. The attacking midfielder has finally established himself as a regular starter for his club and has become a key figure in Vincenzo Montella’s national team. With confidence and experience now on his side, he is expected to play a pivotal role at the World Cup. They will face the United States in the group stage, and Montella’s men are certainly not a team to be underestimated.

6) Luis Diaz, Colombia

Luis Diaz

COL • F • #7

The Bayern Munich winger is already a star, but he has a chance to become a global one. He has been phenomenal in his first season at Bayern Munich after his move from Liverpool. With 26 goals scored and 19 assists provided to his teammates in all competitions, Diaz is now ready to make an impact also with Colombia, one of the most interesting teams at the World Cup.

5) Nico Paz, Argentina

Nico Paz

ARG • F • #18

Among all the names on this list, Nico Paz stands out as the player most likely to emerge as a true breakout star in the years ahead, at least in my opinion. The Argentinian midfielder is an incredible talent and made the difference in his two-year spell at Como, bringing the club to Champions League qualification this season. However, Real Madrid still retain control over his future, and he is expected to return to Spain after the World Cup, where Mourinho is likely to give him a prominent role in his plans.

4) Yan Diomande, Ivory Coast

Yan Diomande

CIV • F • #11

Most of the Premier League teams are eyeing Yan Diomande as the next talent to shine. The 21-year-old will represent Ivory Coast at this summer’s World Cup following a standout season with RB Leipzig. Having scored 13 goals and provided 10 assists across all competitions, he has established himself as one of Europe’s most exciting and productive wingers. The only question now is — who will secure the signature of the former Florida prep player after the World Cup?

How Yan Diomande went from Florida prep talent to potential World Cup 2026 breakout star with Ivory Coast

Chuck Booth

3) Joao Neves, Portugal

Joao Neves

POR • M • #15

The Portuguese midfielder has been one of the reasons for the recent success of PSG, the side coached by Luis Enrique that won two Champions League trophies in a row. If Portugal are to establish themselves as one of the leading contenders at the World Cup, his influence will be crucial.

2) Desire Doue, France

Desire Doue

FRA • F • #20

Speaking of PSG and success, the impact of Desire Doue can be the difference in winning the World Cup. Blessed with immense talent and a ruthless edge in front of goal, the 21-year-old has enjoyed an impressive rise. Across two seasons at PSG, he registered 28 goals in 99 matches and helped the club secure two UEFA Champions League crowns as a regular starter. The World Cup with France now offers the ideal platform to elevate his status even further.

1) Michael Olise, France

Michael Olise

FRA • M • #11

And then Olise, the most impressive player of the season in Europe with Bayern Munich. He’s a star, but here he can become a globa superstar. The French striker is set to play a key role under Didier Deschamps at what will be the manager’s final World Cup. With Florentino Perez reelected, Real Madrid are reportedly preparing a move for him this summer. Whether the transfer materializes remains to be seen, particularly with the upcoming World Cup, which could significantly increase his market value if he plays as expected.

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Gusty winds move through Phoenix metro

PHOENIX (AZFamily) — An outflow boundary is causing winds to gust in the lower elevations.

25 July 2026 3:40 PM MST: Strong winds are surging into the lower elevations with outflow boundaries visible as fine lines in radar reflectivity. Expect wind gusts 30-50 mph, locally stronger along the Salt River Valley. Boaters beware! #azwx pic.twitter.com/CSBY738otz

— NWS Phoenix (@NWSPhoenix) July 25, 2026

A special weather statement has been issued for Phoenix, Mesa and Chandler until 4:45 p.m. for the potential of wind gusts up to 50 mph.

The heat is also on this weekend! The National Weather Service has issued an extreme heat warning through Monday, with temperatures soaring back over 115 degrees. We are First Alerting during this time.

Saturday will bring the hottest conditions of the weekend, with highs climbing above 115 degrees. While we won’t be breaking the record high of 119 degrees set in 2023, the extended heat poses serious health risks. Sunday will be slightly cooler but still dangerously hot, with highs around 112 degrees

Drink plenty of water and wear sunscreen. Heat exhaustion and heat stroke can develop quickly in these conditions. Check on elderly neighbors and pets, and avoid prolonged outdoor activities during peak heat hours.

Gusty winds and slight rain chance

Don’t let the heat fool you; wind will also be a factor this weekend. Expect gusty conditions across the Valley with gusts potentially exceeding 35 miles per hour. Secure loose outdoor items and use caution if driving high-profile vehicles.

A slight chance for rain exists this weekend thanks to monsoon moisture, but chances remain very low across the Phoenix metro area. Higher terrain north and east of Phoenix has a better chance of seeing some showers.

What to expect early next week

Temperatures will drop slightly to around 110 degrees on Monday, but the heat continues. Both Sunday and Monday will carry a slight chance of evening showers and thunderstorms as monsoon moisture persists.

Highs will remain near 110 on Tuesday and Wednesday before another warming trend develops late next week. Temperatures could potentially climb back into the mid-110s by the end of the week.

Stay with First Alert Weather for the latest updates on heat conditions and any changes to this forecast.

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Predicting What the Kings Do With Final Two Roster Spots

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The Sacramento Kings are nearly done with their 2026 offseason, but after waiving DeMar DeRozan in early July, they still have two open roster spots. As it stands, the Kings have 13 players on standard contracts and all three of their two-way slots filled.

With less than a week until August and about two months away from training camp, what will the Kings do with those two open roster spots? Here is how I think they will approach their 14th and 15th spots on the roster.

Elevate Jonathan Mogbo

Oct 6, 2025; Vancouver, British Columbia, CAN; Toronto Raptors forward Jonathan Mogbo (2) during a stop in play against the Denver Nuggets in the second half at Rogers Arena. | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

The Kings made a strong addition this offseason by signing Jonathan Mogbo to a two-way contract. The 24-year-old forward spent his first two years in the NBA with the Toronto Raptors after being drafted 31st overall in 2024. He made an immediate impact in Toronto, averaging 6.2 points, 4.9 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and 1.4 stocks per game as a rookie.

Mogbo ultimately fell out of the Raptors’ rotation as a sophomore, leading to the team declining his team option for 2026-27, but it helped him land in Sacramento’s lap. After what he showed in the Summer League in his first action as a King, fans are ready for the franchise to give him a standard contract.

Through four games in Las Vegas, Mogbo averaged 11.5 points, 8.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 0.5 steals, and 1.5 blocks per game, while shooting 44.4% from the field and 50.0% from three-point range. Obviously, nobody would expect the 6-foot-9 power forward to be a significant contributor for the Kings if they elevated him, but he would be an inexpensive option who fits their timeline and has already shown signs of being an impactful player.

Also, by elevating Mogbo, the Kings will be able to sign another player to a two-way contract.

Leave the final spot open

Apr 12, 2026; Portland, Oregon, USA; Sacramento Kings head coach Doug Christie watches the game from court side during the second half in a game against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center. | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Sure, the Kings have two roster spots to fill, but that does not mean they have to sign two more players. It is certainly not out of the ordinary for NBA teams to keep a roster spot open, and it would honestly be surprising if the Kings filled both open contracts. Keep in mind, an NBA team needs to hold a minimum of 14 players on standard contracts.

The Kings do not necessarily need another player. They have no glaring positional need with their rotation already set, besides maybe extra forward depth (which Mogbo helps with) and a true backup point guard. Sure, they could target another player to help with their minor problems, or they could keep some roster flexibility while saving themselves from going into the luxury tax.

As long as the Kings stretch DeRozan’s $10 million cap hit over the next three seasons, they will avoid paying a luxury tax. If they fill both of their final roster spots, they would likely reach the expected luxury tax line of $201 million. For a team that is expected to finish near the bottom of the Western Conference, there is no real reason to be paying a luxury tax penalty.

Plus, with veterans like Domantas Sabonis, Zach LaVine, and Malik Monk potentially on the trade block next season, keeping an open roster spot gives them more flexibility in trade talks.

The Kings could approach their final two roster spots in a few different ways, but we certainly would not be surprised if this is how things shake out.

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Former IMMAF Champions Abdul Hussein and Magomed Tuchalov set for UFC debuts in Abu Dhabi

Paul Abraham

IMMAF will once again be represented inside the Octagon this weekend. At UFC Abu Dhabi: Ankalaev vs. Guskov, Abdul Hussein and Magomed Tuchalov will both make their UFC debuts. The two fighters have very different careers, but they share one thing: both won gold on the amateur circuit before turning professional.

Abdul Hussein was one of IMMAF’s top bantamweights during the mid-2010s. Representing Finland, he won the European Championships in 2015 after four victories. In the final, he defeated Marco Zannetti to claim the gold medal.

One year later, Hussein did even better. At the 2016 World Championships, he once again won four fights and became world champion. He defeated Alexander Pereira, Lath Stevens, Hughie O’Rourke before beating David Evans in the final.

Those two titles made him one of the top amateur bantamweights of his generation. But unlike many prospects, Hussein did not reach the UFC quickly. He spent several years fighting in different organizations and building his record.

The Finnish fighter now enters the UFC with a 15-2 record. One of his defeats came against fellow alumni Muhammad Mokaev in 2021. Since then, Hussein has put together a long winning streak and has finished several opponents. For his UFC debut, he will face Cody Gibson. The American has more than 30 professional fights and has already spent many years in the UFC. It is a difficult first matchup, but Hussein has more experience than most debutants.

Magomed Tuchalov arrives with a different profile. The Russian won the 2019 IMMAF Junior World Championships in the 185-pound division. He defeated Mehdi Taki, Lukas Kaplan and Matej Hrkal to claim the gold medal. Since turning professional, Tuchalov has not lost a fight. He enters the UFC with a 6-0 record and has finished five of his six opponents. His style is aggressive, and most of his fights do not reach the final bell. Tuchalov has won by submission, elbows, ground and pound and even a flying knee. In his most recent fight, he stopped former UFC fighter Caio Machado in the first round. That win showed he was ready for a bigger opportunity.

He will now face Brendson Ribeiro in his UFC debut. The Brazilian has already fought several times in the organisation and is known for his power. Tuchalov will have to be careful, but a win would immediately make him an interesting name in the middleweight division.

Hussein and Tuchalov did not take the same road to the UFC. Hussein spent years gaining experience before finally earning his chance, while Tuchalov reached the organisation after only six professional fights. Still, both first made their names in the IMMAF. This weekend, they will try to show that their amateur success can also translate to the UFC.

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