Overview
- Coverage frames Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo as likely playing their final World Cups with both expected to shape tournament narratives through form and fitness.
- Argentina remain pre-tournament favourites with coach Lionel Scaloni stressing Messi’s creative importance to their title defence despite his advancing age.
- FIFA published an official Golden Ball shortlist that mixes established stars and rising talents, naming players such as Kylian Mbappé, Harry Kane, Michael Olise, Lamine Yamal, Vitinha and Enzo Fernández.
- Pre-tournament risks include injuries and administrative issues that could alter squads, with Neymar’s fitness described as uncertain and Argentina still pursuing an eligibility appeal for Nicolás Otamendi.
- Other veteran stars including Luka Modric, Kevin De Bruyne and Mohamed Salah are also likely finishing their World Cup careers and the North American venues create space for new players to emerge on the biggest stage.