As FIFA’s first expanded Club World Cup kicks off in the United States with a staggering $1 billion prize pool, several of the world’s top players will be absent due to a complex qualification system and timing issues. Here are five major names fans won’t see lighting up American stadiums:
1. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool)
Despite a record-breaking season with 29 goals and 18 assists, Salah won’t be part of the tournament as Liverpool failed to qualify. The Egyptian star and other Liverpool icons like Virgil van Dijk miss the chance for a Champions League revenge clash with PSG. Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz, another standout, also misses out.
2. Lamine Yamal (Barcelona)
Barcelona’s teenage sensation, dubbed the next Messi, won’t feature due to the Spanish giants’ absence. At just 17, Yamal’s dazzling dribbling has drawn global attention. His teammates Pedri, Lewandowski, and Raphinha also miss the event.
3. Cristiano Ronaldo (Al Nassr)
Ronaldo, 40, won’t clash with longtime rival Messi in the US. Although FIFA explored options to get him into the tournament, the Al Nassr forward confirmed his commitment to the Saudi club after helping Portugal win the Nations League.
4. Bukayo Saka (Arsenal)
Arsenal’s dynamic winger won’t have a shot at international club glory after the Gunners narrowly missed qualification. Saka, still in search of major silverware, loses a prime opportunity to add to his modest trophy cabinet.
5. Neymar (Santos)
Recovering from injury, Neymar rejoined Santos in January to gear up for the 2026 World Cup. His absence is a commercial blow, as the Brazilian star remains a global draw. “He’s in the top three with Cristiano and Messi,” said teammate Casemiro.
As the tournament begins, fans will relish the action but can only imagine what it might have looked like with these superstars on the pitch.
