World Cup Favorites’ Missing Starting XI

The ten teams tipped as favorites for the 2026 World Cup will have to cope with notable absences. Some players will miss the tournament entirely because their nations failed to qualify.

Others are sidelined by injuries, with names such as Xavi Simons, Rodrygo and Fermín among the out‑field casualties. A third group consists of players omitted for tactical reasons, often fading from public attention.

In Spain, for instance, Barrios and Lamine were left out despite strong club form, sparking debate. These gaps could force the favorites to adjust tactics and may impact their chances of lifting the trophy.