The XI of stars who will be watching the 2026 World Cup from home.

The 2026 World Cup will feature a host of world-class stars. However, there are also some names that will be missing out, which is quite regrettable.

A lineup of stars who will be absent from the 2026 World Cup.

The ideal team of stars selected by Yahoo Sports who are unable to participate in the 2026 World Cup could form a team capable of competing with any major opponent.

In goal, Jan Oblak occupies the position of goalkeeper. The Slovenian custodian has long been regarded as one of the most consistent goalkeepers in Europe, with excellent reflexes, the ability to command the defense, and extensive experience at club level. However, Slovenia failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, meaning Oblak will once again miss out on the biggest tournament on the planet.

Illustrative image. Source: ChatGPT.

This team's defense boasts many quality players, most notably the Italian central defensive duo of Alessandro Bastoni and Riccardo Calafiori. Bastoni is considered a new leader in the Italian defense thanks to his ability to read situations, initiate attacks, and remain calm in big matches. Meanwhile, Calafiori has emerged as one of the most versatile and modern defenders in Europe. The fact that the "Azzurri" will not participate in the 2026 World Cup is a major shock to football fans.

The remaining name in the defense is Willi Orban. The veteran Hungarian center-back possesses a powerful playing style, impressive aerial ability, and leadership qualities. Despite their best efforts, Hungary were unable to qualify for the finals.

This team's midfield is exceptionally strong, featuring Sandro Tonali (Italy), Dominik Szoboszlai (Hungary), Xavi Simons (Netherlands), and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (Georgia).

Tonali is a versatile midfielder with the ability to recover the ball, control the tempo, and deliver incisive passes. Szoboszlai stands out for his technique, long-range shooting ability, and leadership role for Hungary. Meanwhile, Xavi Simons is considered one of the most promising young talents in Europe with his creative and fast-paced style of play, but the Dutch international is unable to participate due to injury.

On the wing, Kvaratskhelia continued to demonstrate her class with her skillful individual technique and exceptional ability to create breakthroughs. However, Georgia was unable to spring any surprises in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, leaving the star player disappointed and unable to participate in the tournament.

Up front, this lineup boasts formidable strength with the presence of Victor Osimhen (Nigeria), Robert Lewandowski (Poland), and Ademola Lookman (Nigeria).

Osimhen remains one of the most dangerous strikers in the world thanks to his speed, versatile finishing ability, and superior physical strength. Alongside him is Lewandowski – the legendary Polish striker with a fearsome goal-scoring instinct and extensive experience in major tournaments. Meanwhile, Lookman brings versatility, speed, and the ability to create breakthroughs in the attacking line.

The absence of many big stars means the 2026 World Cup will be somewhat lacking in anticipated performances. However, football is always tough, and World Cup qualifiers are never an easy journey, even for the best players in the world.

Source: https://danviet.vn/doi-hinh-nhung-ngoi-sao-vang-mat-tai-world-cup-2026-d1428843.html