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World-Class XI of players missing the 2026 World Cup revealed

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 11, 2026, 8:35 AM

Last updated Jun 11, 2026

World-Class XI of players missing the 2026 World Cup revealed

Summary

A list has emerged featuring top players who will miss the 2026 World Cup due to injuries, snubs, or failure to qualify. Italy's Gianluigi Donnarumma and Trent Alexander-Arnold of England are among those left on the sidelines. Others include Polish forward Robert Lewandowski and Nigeria's Victor Osimhen, who both missed out on World Cup spots following playoff defeats. The absence of these players highlights the competitive nature of international football and the heartbreak associated with national selection. The next World Cup will take place this summer, presenting an opportunity for fresh talent to shine on the global stage.

Source Links

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Status Watch

•Gianluigi Donnarumma missed out as Italy failed to qualify again.
•Trent Alexander-Arnold has struggled to secure a regular spot on the England team.
•Robert Lewandowski is likely playing his final World Cup after Poland's playoff loss.
•Victor Osimhen was sidelined as Nigeria lost a penalty shootout against DR Congo.
•Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Phil Foden are also notable omissions from their respective squads.

Latest Updates

8:35 AMYahoo Sports — Injury, Heartbreak and Snubs: A World-Class XI Missing the 2026 World Cup

What they're saying

"
The World Cup will feature many of the planet's best talents, but there is a whole host of world-class names who will be watching from the sidelines.We've put together a best XI of players missing fro...
— Yahoo Sports

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