What's Happening?
Several high-profile football players will miss the 2026 World Cup due to their national teams failing to qualify. The tournament, set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will be without stars like Jan Oblak, Willi Orban, and Victor Osimhen. BBC Sport has compiled a list of the best XI players absent from the tournament, highlighting the impact of national team performances on individual players' World Cup participation.
Why It's Important?
The absence of these players from the World Cup underscores the competitive nature of international football and the challenges teams face in qualifying for major tournaments. It also highlights the impact of national team success on players' careers, as participation in the World Cup can significantly enhance
a player's visibility and market value. The absence of key players can also affect the tournament's appeal and the competitive balance among participating teams.
