The 2026 World Cup is anticipated to feature breakout stars, much like James Rodriguez in 2014 and Enzo Fernández in 2022. Four players to watch are Germany's Deniz Undav, a striker with 19 goals and six assists in 28 Bundesliga games who has earned manager Julian Nagelsmann's trust for his efficiency and potential impact off the bench; Bosnia and Herzegovina's Esmir Bajraktarević, a 21-year-old winger from PSV who switched allegiance from the US and scored the decisive penalty against Italy in World Cup qualifiers, known for his dribbling and confidence; Norway's Antonio Nusa, a 21-year-old winger from RB Leipzig whose speed and trickery can exploit the space created by Erling Haaland; and Argentina's Gianluca Paz, a 21-year-old attacking midfielder for Como who delivered 21 goals and assists in Serie A and is expected to be an impact substitute for the defending champions.