2026 World Cup squad: Messi, Mbappé and Rodri are part
According to Sports.
Context
Messi, already a football legend, had a significant participation in the 2026 World Cup, further consolidating his legacy. Rodri, in turn, was awarded the Ballon d'Or, highlighting his crucial role in Spain's midfield, which was instrumental in winning the title. The presence of these players in their respective national teams raises expectations for the future of international football.
Why this matters
The inclusion of Messi, Mbappé and Rodri in the 2026 World Cup Tournament Team highlights the quality and competitiveness of world football. Messi, as one of the greatest players in history, continues to impress, while Mbappé and Rodri demonstrate that the new generation of talent is ready to shine. The performance of these athletes could influence their selections in their quest for success in future tournaments, including the next World Cup.
Main conclusions
- 2026 World Cup squad: Messi, Mbappé and Rodri are part.
- The 2026 World Cup selection brought out the best players of the tournament, with Messi, Mbappé and Rodri among the highlights.
- 2026 FIFA World Cup Team of the Tournament: Messi, Mbappe and Rodri make Best XI - Yahoo Sports.
The 2026 World Cup had a thrilling outcome, with Spain winning the title by beating Argentina in the final. But beyond the title, the tournament also highlighted many talented players, who were essential for their respective teams. Let's check out the main names that stood out and were chosen for the "Selection of the Tournament".
**Unai Simon**: Spain's goalkeeper was voted the best in the competition, winning the Golden Boot for recording the best save percentage. His proactive style helped Spain maintain a high and effective defensive line, ensuring the solidity needed to win the title.
**Pedro Porro**: Tottenham Hotspur's right-back had a remarkable performance, contributing defensively with 37 defensive actions and also scoring two goals, showing his importance in both defense and attack.
**Pau Cubarsi**: The young player was one of the highlights as he led the tournament in number of touches, successful passes and tackles. He deservedly won the FIFA Best Young Player Award, showing that he has a bright future ahead of him.
**Marc Guehi**: The England defender had a solid performance, helping his team secure third place with his tight defense and ball control.
**Marc Cucurella**: Among left-backs, Cucurella stood out by being first in assists and second in big chances created, showing his offensive and defensive ability.
**Rodri**: The Spanish midfielder was voted the best player of the tournament, thanks to his exceptional positioning both with and without the ball, allowing Spain to control games and limit their opponents' opportunities.
**Declan Rice**: He stood out among midfielders, leading in decisive passes per game and contributing with three actionswhich resulted in goals, showing his influence in midfield.
**Jude Bellingham**: The Real Madrid star was England's best player, scoring seven goals, the most by an English player in a single World Cup, proving his value in decisive moments.
**Michael Olise**: The young player made history by becoming the first to record six assists from open play, equaling the tournament record.
**Kylian Mbappé**: The Frenchman won the Golden Boot by becoming the tournament's top scorer and also made history as the competition's top scorer, consolidating his status as one of the best players in the world.
**Lionel Messi**: The Argentine star was not far behind, being the leader in chances created and decisive passes per game, in addition to scoring a significant number of goals, always showing his skill in dribbling and decisive plays.
These players not only shined on the pitch, but also left a lasting mark on the history of the 2026 World Cup, which will be remembered for their competitiveness and exceptional talents. With Spain at the top, the tournament was a spectacle that reaffirmed the world's passion for football.
What happens next
With the 2026 World Cup now over, standout players such as Messi and Rodri will likely be focused on their club careers, seeking to maintain the level of performance that earned them recognition. Furthermore, attention turns to upcoming international competitions, where these players will once again be able to showcase their talent and contribute to their national teams, especially in the qualifiers for the next World Cup.