At the upcoming FIFA World Cup, special attention will be on five young talents, including Mexico’s Gilberto Mora and Brazil’s Endrick. Seventeen-year-old Mexican midfielder Gilberto Mora has the potential to become the youngest player to represent his country at a World Cup. Brazil’s 19-year-old forward Endrick is set to join coach Carlo Ancelotti’s World Cup squad and will share the pitch alongside Neymar. The World Cup is widely regarded as the ultimate stage for emerging football stars. Notably, Pelé led Brazil to a World Cup victory at age 17 in 1958, while Kylian Mbappé played a crucial role in France’s 2018 World Cup win at just 19 years old.
Established European footballers like Lamin Yamal, Pau Cubarsi, and Germany’s Lennart Karl will also draw significant attention. However, some fresh faces are expected to make a major impact in the tournament as well.
Gilberto Mora (Mexico)
Gilberto is considered one of the most promising talents in Mexican football. At 17, he stands a chance to become Mexico’s youngest-ever player to feature at a World Cup. Currently playing for Tijuana, Mora made history by scoring in Mexico’s top division at just 15 years old. He debuted for the national team at 16, drawing interest from major clubs such as Real Madrid and Barcelona.
Yan Diomandé (Ivory Coast)
Nineteen-year-old winger Yan earned his spot on the Ivory Coast World Cup squad after strong performances with German club RB Leipzig. Raised in the United States, Diomandé played school-level football in Florida before progressing through Spain’s Leganés and eventually securing a place at Leipzig. He debuted for the national team last year and is considered a future star of Ivorian football.
Endrick (Brazil)
Endrick is viewed as Brazil’s next big star. The 19-year-old forward first emerged at Palmeiras before moving to Real Madrid. After limited playing time in Madrid, he was loaned to French club Lyon where he enjoyed an outstanding season. This performance earned him a place in coach Carlo Ancelotti’s World Cup squad. Alongside Neymar, Vinícius Júnior, and Raphinha, Endrick will be a key part of Brazil’s attacking lineup.
Ibrahim Mbaye (Senegal)
At 18, Ibrahim became the youngest Senegalese goal scorer in the history of the Africa Cup of Nations this year. Developed at PSG’s academy, he made his French league debut at 16. Last season, he impressed across various competitions, including the Champions League, affirming his growing capabilities.
Kendry Páez (Ecuador)
By 19, Kendry has established himself as a regular member of the Ecuadorian national team. Chelsea secured his signing in 2023, and he has since been loaned to France’s Strasbourg and most recently to Argentina’s River Plate. Known for his excellent dribbling and pace, Páez could make a strong impact at the World Cup and potentially return to top-tier European football.
The World Cup has a storied history of launching new stars. This time as well, one among Mora, Diomandé, Endrick, Mbaye, or Páez could emerge as a global football sensation. Their performances may well shape the direction of football in the coming decade.
