FIFA World Cup 2026 Best Young Player candidates

The FIFA Best Young Player Award will once again be one of the most prestigious individual honours at the FIFA World Cup 2026. Previous winners include Kylian Mbappe, Thomas Muller, and Enzo Fernandez, who claimed the award at Qatar 2022. With a host of young stars set to make their World Cup debuts, FIFA has highlighted several likely candidates for the accolade.

PSG Trio Among Favourites

Désiré Doue turned 21 last week but has already won the UEFA Champions League twice, the FIFA Intercontinental Cup, and every major domestic honour in France since joining Paris Saint-Germain in mid-2024. The winger recorded 24 goal contributions last season and could cement his status among the world's elite with an impressive World Cup campaign for France.

João Neves also moved to PSG in mid-2024 and quickly became a key figure in midfield. The Portuguese international, who came through Benfica's academy, is known for his work rate, football intelligence, and composure on the ball. If Portugal perform well in North America, Neves is likely to be in contention for the award.

The third PSG player on the list is a versatile midfielder heading into the World Cup after another successful club season. His chances may depend on whether he can secure a starting role in France's star-studded squad or serve as a supersub.

Young Stars Across Europe

Endrick, 19, had a difficult start at Real Madrid but impressed on loan at Olympique Lyon in the second half of last season, recording 16 goal contributions in 24 appearances. He will aim to carry that form into the World Cup with Brazil.

Pau Cubarsi established himself in Barcelona's defence at age 17 under former coach Xavi Hernandez and is expected to start for Spain. No defender has ever won the Best Young Player Award, but Cubarsi could change that if he impresses in North America.

Arda Guler took time to find his feet at Real Madrid but flourished last season with 20 goal contributions. The attacking midfielder is now a regular starter and, alongside Kenan Yildiz, will be one of Türkiye's greatest hopes.

Other Contenders

Antonio Nusa of Norway has an impressive international record with 17 goal contributions in 24 appearances. The left winger could help Norway become a surprise package at the tournament.

Nusa's Leipzig teammate, Karim Konate, enjoyed a meteoric rise last season with 23 goal involvements. At age 19, he could become a key player for Côte d'Ivoire, with his pace and two-footedness making him difficult to defend.

Ibrahim Maza, an attacking midfielder, established himself at Bayer Leverkusen in the second half of his debut season and has been a fixture for Algeria since 2024. Drawn into a tough group with Argentina, Austria, and Jordan, Algeria will rely on his creativity to reach the knockout stages.