The 2026 World Cup will see the world’s most renowned soccer stars compete in North America, with players like Kylian Mbappé, Lionel Messi, and Erling Haaland aiming for glory. However, a number of exceptional talents will not be participating, and when combined, they form a remarkably strong team.

A Star-Studded Lineup of Absentees

Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Donnarumma

Gianluigi Donnarumma, despite winning the Champions League, European Championships, and Yashin Trophy, is yet to appear in a World Cup. His first opportunity will have to wait until at least 2030. Italy’s failure to qualify for three successive World Cups was sealed with a penalty shootout defeat to Bosnia and Herzegovina in March.

Defense: Dominik Szoboszlai & Nikola Milenković & Alessandro Bastoni & Federico Dimarco

Dominik Szoboszlai enjoyed a strong season, but Hungary missed out on both automatic qualification and a playoff berth for the World Cup. The versatile midfielder, often deployed at right-back, adds defensive solidity to this XI.

Nikola Milenković of Serbia will also be absent, as Serbia trailed England and Albania in their qualifying group. Despite a slightly less impressive season than last year, he remains a physical presence in defense.

Alessandro Bastoni’s costly red card in the playoff final against Bosnia and Herzegovina contributed to Italy’s failure to qualify. He faces criticism for the error, despite his overall quality.

Federico Dimarco, enjoying a stellar campaign with Inter Milan, will miss his chance to make his World Cup debut. His attacking prowess from left wingback would have been a valuable asset.

Midfield: Sandro Tonali & Nicolò Barella

Sandro Tonali did everything he could to help Italy qualify, even scoring in the playoff semifinal. However, he couldn’t prevent the eventual collapse and will miss out on the tournament.

Nicolò Barella, considered one of the most talented midfielders of his generation, continues to wait for his World Cup appearance. Despite a key role in Italy’s Euro 2020 triumph, his wait goes on.

Attack: Bryan Mbeumo, Robert Lewandowski & Victor Osimhen & Khvicha Kvaratskhelia

Bryan Mbeumo will miss the tournament after Cameroon finished behind Cape Verde in qualification and then lost to DR Congo in the CAF playoff semifinal.

Robert Lewandowski, despite a distinguished career, will only have one World Cup appearance to his name after Poland’s playoff defeat to Sweden.

Victor Osimhen, Nigeria’s top scorer in qualifying with eight goals, couldn’t propel the Super Eagles to the World Cup, losing to DR Congo on penalties.

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, despite a strong showing at Euro 2024, couldn’t lead Georgia to its first World Cup as an independent nation. They finished bottom of their qualifying group.