The FIFA World Cup is, without question, football’s biggest stage, but there will be a few notable names missing out on the tournament next summer.
Qualification for the North American festivities are drawing to a close around the globe, with a good chunk of the 48 competing nations confirming their spots.
And, of course, there will be superstars on show in abundance, with legacies bound to be defined, carved, hindered and cultivated, such is the significant of World Cup football.
It’s an event you really don’t want to miss, and despite FIFA’s expansionist ideals, less than a quarter of the governing body’s member associations will be involved in North America. Plenty will be absent, including some high-profile stars.
Here are the best players who won’t feature at the 2026 World Cup.
