Move over Messi and Ronaldo - the new generation shining at World Cup
The 2026 World Cup is showcasing a new generation of young talent alongside established legends like Messi and Ronaldo. Several players aged 21 or under, including Ibrahim Mbaye and Lamine Yamal, have made significant impacts during the tournament's group stages.
Why it matters
This highlights a generational transition in global football, marking the emergence of future stars on the world's biggest sporting stage.
Image source, Getty Images Image caption, Of the 85 players aged 21 or younger at the World Cup, one is aged 17, 11 are 18, 8 are 19, while there are 28 aged 20 and 37 aged 21
The article is a straightforward sports report focusing on player performance and statistics.
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