Predicted BEST World Cup 2026 XI

The 2026 World Cup is almost upon us. The tournament has seen superstars like Pele, Diego Maradona and Kylian Mbappe rise to prominence – but who will this year’s top stars be?

With over 1,000 players to pick from across 48 different nations, we had plenty of scope for choice – let’s take a look at who we think will be in the 2026 World Cup XI when all is said and done.

We have picked players based on a number of factors. Of course, their team will need to make significant inroads in the competition for them to be in with a chance of being in the best XI – and that’s just for starters. Who do you think will be in the 2026 World Cup team of the tournament?

GK: Diego Costa

Arguably the best goalkeeper in the world at the moment, Diogo Costa is enjoying an absolutely phenomenal campaign in the Primeira Liga with Porto at the moment.

With just 15 goals conceded in 31 league games, alongside 19 clean sheets, it’s hard to find someone superior. Furthermore, Portugal will enter the tournament as one of the favourites – it’s highly likely that they will have a deep run into the latter stages.

RB: Nahuel Molina

This might seem like an unorthodox pick, but after Achraf Hakimi suffered a hamstring injury that could see him ruled out of the World Cup, Nahuel Molina looks like the leading choice to be the tournament’s best right-back.

He has often found himself on the bench for Atletico Madrid this season, but he is a constant presence in Argentina’s squad. With an acute eye for goal, La Albiceleste’s penchant for expansive football will allow him to harness the true extent of his abilities.

CB: Marquinhos

Marquinhos is amongst the best defenders in the world right now. He can do it all – he’s strong in the air, incredibly brave and possesses sublime technical ability to allow him to play the ball out of defence.

Furthermore, his leadership abilities are top notch. Players need to stand up and be counted at the World Cup – Marquinhos certainly isn’t one to shy away from a fight.

CB: Gabriel

While Brazil are far from the peak of their powers at the moment, Marquinhos and Gabriel should be able to form a formidable defensive partnership at the World Cup if they are allowed to do so.

While Marquinhos provides the brains, Gabriel is on hand to provide the brawn. His goalscoring record has been very solid this season, scoring three goals and notching up four assists – such an X-factor can be invaluable during international tournaments.