Donnarumma and Kvaratskhelia among stars missing World Cup opportunity
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 11, 2026, 11:25 AM
Last updated Jun 11, 2026
Gianluigi Donnarumma and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia are set to miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup despite their significant contributions at club levels. This list includes legendary figures like Alfredo Di Stefano, George Best, and Eric Cantona, who never appeared in a World Cup despite remarkable careers. The absence of these players highlights the unpredictable nature of international eligibility and competition. As the football world gears up for the tournament, discussions about the greatest players who never had a World Cup opportunity continue.
- •Donnarumma and Kvaratskhelia are notable absentees for 2026 World Cup.
- •Alfredo Di Stefano represented Argentina, Colombia, and Spain but missed the World Cup.
- •George Best starred for Manchester United but never played in a World Cup.
- •Eric Cantona was influential in England but failed to qualify for the World Cup.
- •Gunnar Nordhal and Ian Rush also highlight the impact of missed opportunities on careers.
- 11:25 AMYahoo Sports — From Di Stefano to Cantona: The greatest footballers to never play at a World Cup
"The World Cup is the pinnacle of football, but not every talent who has scaled club football's peaks has had the opportunity on the world stage.Gianluigi Donnarumma and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia are among...
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