Several top footballers face an anxious wait to see if they will feature in the 2026 World Cup, with injuries and poor form threatening their participation. Brazil's Neymar, now 34, is struggling to secure his place in the squad amid ongoing fitness concerns. Despite a return to Santos, his form has not yet convinced manager Carlo Ancelotti, who has indicated he will not carry players through the tournament.
Sweden's Alexander Isak is also at risk, having suffered a serious leg injury. The nation must overcome Ukraine in March play-offs to qualify, with other stars like Viktor Gyokeres and Dejan Kulusevski also facing uncertain futures. Meanwhile, Cameroon has already failed to qualify, meaning Bryan Mbeumo and Carlos Baleba will miss the tournament despite strong club seasons.
Italy, absent from the World Cup since 2014, must navigate play-offs to end their 12-year drought. Goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma will be crucial, but the pressure is immense. Robert Lewandowski, another modern great, has often battled to drag Poland through qualification, but their path remains unclear.
The expanded 48-team tournament offers more places, but the play-offs in March will eliminate several high-profile names. Injuries and form will ultimately decide the fate of these stars, with some already seeing their chances slip away.
