ESPN scout Tor-Kristian Karlsen has ranked the 21 best U21 players for the 2026 World Cup, featuring emerging talents from top European clubs. The list includes players like Antonio Nusa of Norway, valued at €32 million, and Morocco's 18-year-old midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, who commands a €50 million price tag. These prospects represent the next generation of football stars set to shine in the tournament across the US, Mexico, and Canada.

The selection process involved input from professional scouts and sporting directors at leading European clubs, alongside analysis of online scouting platforms. Several notable players missed the cut due to age—22-year-olds like Jude Bellingham and Alejandro Balde—and others due to injury or non-selection. The list highlights players who have already made significant impacts in their domestic leagues, showcasing their potential on the biggest stage.

Each player's profile includes their club, position, estimated transfer value, and key performance metrics. For instance, Nusa's 3.01 successful dribbles per 90 minutes demonstrates his exceptional ball-handling skills. While these young athletes bring excitement, areas for improvement are noted, such as decision-making and defensive contributions. This ranking provides a glimpse into football's future stars.