The FIFA World Cup 2026 will once again bring together the biggest stars in global football, but a few major names will unfortunately be watching from home. Here are five players whose absence from the tournament leaves fans disappointed.

This year’s World Cup feels like the closing chapter for several footballing legends. Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Luka Modric are all expected to make their final World Cup appearances — three Ballon d’Or winners and icons of an entire generation.

Another name who easily fits into that elite bracket is Robert Lewandowski. The Polish striker came agonisingly close to winning the Ballon d’Or, missing out largely due to the global pandemic, though he did capture The Best FIFA Men’s Player award in both 2020 and 2021.

However, Lewandowski will not feature this summer after Poland failed to secure qualification. At 37, it’s likely the prolific forward has played his last World Cup match.

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, one of Europe’s brightest talents, will be hoping not to join the list of world-class players who never graced a World Cup. Despite Georgia’s impressive run to Euro 2024, their World Cup qualifying campaign ended in disappointment.

As a result, the Paris Saint-Germain star will spend the summer away from international duty, even after a dazzling club season that included a Champions League triumph.

Nigeria’s absence is perhaps the biggest shock among African nations, having fallen to DR Congo in a penalty shootout during the play-offs. Without the Super Eagles, the World Cup will also be missing one of the game’s most exciting forwards — Galatasaray’s Victor Osimhen.

At a time when the sport lacks top-tier number nines, Osimhen has established himself as one of the best, scoring 59 goals in 74 appearances for Galatasaray, including seven in just 10 Champions League matches this season.

Cole Palmer’s omission from Thomas Tuchel’s England squad was among the most surprising decisions, especially considering his proven record in high-pressure games. The Chelsea attacker has already scored in both European Championship and Club World Cup finals, showing composure beyond his years.

After his stellar performances at last year’s Club World Cup in North America, few expected Palmer to miss out on England’s World Cup roster.

Dominik Szoboszlai, fresh off a standout season with Liverpool, will also be absent from the tournament. Hungary fell short in the UEFA play-offs despite the tireless efforts of their inspirational captain.

Szoboszlai was a rare bright spot in an inconsistent Liverpool campaign, often driving his team forward with energy and creativity. Though his summer will now be spent resting, the break might prove beneficial for new Reds head coach Andoni Iraola.