Five stars who will miss the 2026 World Cup this summer
Five stars who will miss the 2026 World Cup this summer The 2026 World Cup will be like never before. With more teams and more matches, the summer tournament will be the biggest in the competition’s long history. Some of the best players from around the world will be fighting for the sport’s biggest prize.
But the fact that several major football nations failed to secure World Cup qualification, a few world-class talents will not be there to showcase their skills. Below we look at five of these best players. Benjamin Sesko (Slovenia) Sesko is a gifted centre-forward who is known for his blistering pace, physicality and powerful finishing.
The 22-year-old has scored 11 Premier League goals this season, helping Manchester United secure Champions League football. The exciting young forward won’t be at the 2026 World Cup, as Slovenia finished behind Switzerland and Kosovo in their qualifying group. Alessandro Bastoni (Italy) Bastoni’s red card against Bosnia and Herzegovina in the playoffs cost Italy a place in the World Cup.
Despite his mistake, the 27-year-old’s quality is never in doubt as he is regarded as one of the best defenders in the world. Bastoni is highly rated for his exceptional passing range, composure under pressure and tactical intelligence. He has helped Inter Milan win two Serie A titles and reach two Champions League finals.
Dominik Szoboszlai (Hungary) Szoboszlai has had an excellent campaign with Liverpool, despite the club’s struggles in 2025-26. Operating in different roles in midfield and defence, he has been a consistent performer for Arne Slot’s side. But the Liverpool talent will not be at the 2026 World Cup , with Hungary’s qualifying campaign ending after a disappointing 3-2 defeat against the Republic of Ireland in November.