Cole Palmer and several other famous football players will be watching from home as the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches across the United States, Canada, and Mexico; some will miss out due to injury, selection decisions, or squad competition.
The News Chronicle reports that although supporters anxiously await the most important World Cup ever, the absence of some of the most well-known stars is the subject of much debate.
England midfielder Cole Palmer is among the unexpected omissions, as Thomas Tuchel left him out of his last squad despite his proven ability to influence major games. Among the other significant English absentees are Luke Shaw, Harry Maguire, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Phil Foden.
Brazil too will be missing a number of important players. Rodrygo misses the tournament due to a severe knee injury; Chelsea forward Joao Pedro was passed over despite a strong season. Teenage phenomenon Estevao and defender Eder Militao are also out due to fitness issues.
Following Dean Huijsen’s exclusion and injuries that sidelined Fermin Lopez, Spain’s team generated controversy. France will be without Liverpool forward Hugo Ekitike, who suffered a protracted Achilles injury, as well as Eduardo Camavinga.
Germany’s Serge Gnabry and Japan’s Kaoru Mitoma are also out, while the Netherlands lost creative midfielder Xavi Simons to injury.
Their absence emphasizes the intense rivalry and unfortunate accidents that usually determine the premier event of football, leaving supporters wondering what might have been had these stars traveled to North America.
