Sofia Quijada
The 2026 FIFA World Cup may expand to 48 teams, but that does not guarantee every superstar a place on football’s biggest stage.
Injuries, aging curves, managerial decisions, and brutal qualification campaigns mean several high-profile names face genuine uncertainty. For some, March 2026 playoffs will decide their fate. For others, time may simply be running out.
Superstars Facing Qualification or Selection Uncertainty
Neymar (Brazil)
At 34, Neymar’s World Cup future hangs in the balance. Persistent injury setbacks and inconsistent performances since returning to Santos have raised questions about his physical reliability.
With Carlo Ancelotti reportedly unwilling to carry underperforming veterans, Brazil’s squad depth could work against him. This may be less about legacy — and more about fitness and tactical balance.
Alexander Isak (Sweden)
Sweden’s qualification campaign has been turbulent, finishing bottom of their group and forced into high-pressure playoff scenarios against Ukraine.
Isak’s serious leg injury adds another layer of concern. Even if Sweden survive March, match sharpness will be a major question — especially alongside fellow attacking doubt Dejan Kulusevski.
Trent Alexander-Arnold (England)
England’s tactical evolution under Thomas Tuchel has complicated Trent’s role. Limited call-ups, positional experimentation, recurring injury spells, and fierce competition at full-back threaten his inclusion.
In a tournament where defensive structure is paramount, selection may come down to tactical discipline rather than creativity.
Robert Lewandowski (Poland)
By the time the tournament begins, Lewandowski will be 37 — potentially 38 depending on timing. Poland must first survive playoffs beginning with Albania.
Even if they qualify, questions remain about whether Poland can build an attack around an aging focal point. This could realistically be his final international window.
Mikel Merino (Spain)
The Arsenal midfielder faces a race against time after foot surgery. Extended rehabilitation could cost him rhythm heading into the summer.
Spain’s midfield depth means there is little margin for partial fitness.
Dominik Szoboszlai (Hungary)
Hungary’s qualification hopes ended following defeat to Ireland. With no playoff route available, the Liverpool midfielder is officially out of contention — despite strong club form.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia (Georgia)
Georgia finished third in qualifying behind Spain and Turkey, with no playoff path available.
One of Europe’s most explosive wingers will miss the tournament unless qualification structures dramatically change.
Stars Already Eliminated Through Team Failure
Some absences are no longer hypothetical — they are confirmed.
Victor Osimhen (Nigeria)
Nigeria fell on penalties to DR Congo in the African playoffs, eliminating one of the world’s most clinical strikers from contention.
Bryan Mbeumo (Cameroon)
Cameroon’s defeat to Cape Verde and subsequent playoff exit ended their campaign early.
Alexis Sanchez (Chile)
Chile finished last in CONMEBOL qualifying with just 11 points, marking a dramatic fall for the two-time Copa América winners.
Dušan Vlahović (Serbia)
Serbia’s elimination means the powerful striker will not feature in North America.
Jan Oblak & Benjamin Šeško (Slovenia)
Despite elite club pedigree, Slovenia’s campaign never gained traction.
Serhou Guirassy (Guinea)
The prolific Dortmund forward managed just one goal as Guinea placed fourth in their group.
Keylor Navas (Costa Rica)
Even the veteran goalkeeper’s return could not prevent Costa Rica finishing behind Honduras and Haiti in Group C.
Age and Retirement: The Natural Cut-Off
Beyond qualification and injuries, football’s timeline is unforgiving.
Marcelo (Brazil)
The former Real Madrid full-back retired in 2025 at age 37, ending any possibility of a final World Cup appearance.
Simon Kjær (Denmark)
The AC Milan defender announced retirement in 2025, closing the chapter on an international career defined by leadership.
Lewandowski, Navas, and Sanchez
Even where qualification remained theoretically possible, advancing age significantly reduced realistic tournament prospects.
What This Means Ahead of March 2026 Playoffs
The expanded 48-team format offers more opportunity — but it does not eliminate risk.
For players like Isak and Lewandowski, March playoffs will define legacy. For Neymar and Alexander-Arnold, managerial decisions could prove decisive. For others, qualification failure has already closed the door.
The 2026 World Cup will showcase new stars.
But several familiar faces may be watching from home.