I watched all the matches of the 2026 World Cup – these seven stars are scheduled for the Premier League

The curtain has finally come down on the 2026 World Cup, meaning attention now turns back to the domestic season and the exciting summer transfer window.

Once again, football’s biggest tournament has propelled a new generation of talent onto the global scene.

Johan Manzambi has already been the first to turn that momentum into a Premier League change, signing for Aston Villa after some eye-catching performances, and he is unlikely to be the only one.

Sports mole takes a look at seven more under-23 talents whose performances in North America suggest English clubs should already be circling.

If one young player truly announced himself in the group stages, it was Morocco’s Ayyoub Bouaddi.

The 18-year-old dominated the opening game against Brazil, setting the tempo with remarkable maturity. Watching live, it was hard not to focus on his movement instead of the ball itself. His ability to drift into space evoked shades of Patrick Vieira’s performances combined with the brilliance of Sergio Busquets.

Lille already knows exactly who they are. Arsenal reportedly failed to make the move, and the French club are determined to keep him in 2026/27.

Best: Arsenal

Gilberto Mora (Mexico & Club Tijuana)

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Mexico’s World Cup run has confirmed what many in North America already suspected, that Gilberto Mora is destined for the very top.

Still only 17 years old, the midfielder carries himself with remarkable composure. His balance, awareness and ability to escape pressure quickly draw comparisons with a young Luka Modric.

His awakening was unusual. Mora was Liga MX’s youngest assist and top scorer before becoming Mexico’s youngest player in history to win the Gold Cup.

Liverpool’s midfield is already evolving, but another technically gifted manager who can dictate plays could perfectly complement Xabi Alonso’s long-term rebuild.

Best: Liverpool

Kerim Alajbegovic (Bosnia & Bayer Leverkusen)

© Consport / PA Images

Kerim Alajbegovic left the tournament as one of the most successful.

The left-winger’s stunning strike against Qatar prompted glowing praise from Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who said the youngster’s imagination had pleased him more than the end itself. A few recommendations carry a lot of weight.

After returning to Bayer Leverkusen after a spell with Red Bull Salzburg, the 18-year-old is already set for senior football. His confidence, direct running and fearlessness make him fit for the Premier League.

Best: Manchester United

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Australia’s run to the Round of 32 has been built on defensive resilience, with Alessandro Circati at the heart of it.

The 22-year-old finished among the best young defenders at the tournament, recording 19 clearances, 10 tackles and six blocks while ranking second in the Australian team in passing accuracy.

After recovering from a long-term ACL injury to establish himself in Serie A with Parma, Circati combines old-fashioned defense with modern composure. His casual reading stood out throughout the tournament.

Best Matches: Brighton & Hove Albion

Alex Freeman (USA & Villarreal)

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Few players have enhanced their reputation on home soil more than Alex Freeman.

The defender has been one of Mauricio Pochettino’s most trusted players, scoring against Australia and producing some spirited performances down the right. His progress over the past 18 months has been remarkable after a spell outside the top international picture.

Athletic, aggressive and technically advanced, Freeman has the profile Premier League clubs desire in modern defenders.

Perfect fit: Everton

© Iconsport / Gavin Barker / BackpagePix

South Africa came out earlier than we expected, but Mbekezeli Mbokazi ensured that the scouts will remember his name.

Only 20 years old, the middle linebacker has scored 31 points and four steals in four games while showing impressive passing alongside his physical defense.

The Chicago Fire have already indicated they will consider suitable offers after signing him from Orlando Pirates, and the Premier League feels like the next logical destination for one of MLS’s fastest growing defenders.

Best suited: Nottingham Forest

Gustavo Puerta (Colombia & Racing Santander)

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Gustavo Puerta arrived at the World Cup as one of Colombia’s most unknown midfielders. He leaves it as one of the standout players in the tournament.

The 22-year-old played a bigger role than anyone else in Colombia’s victory over Ghana, pressing relentlessly while showing a maturity beyond his years.

Nestor Lorenzo’s decision to start him ahead of the more experienced Richard Rios seemed inspired. A comfortable rotation alongside Jefferson Lerma and James Rodriguez, Puerta’s intelligence, versatility and relentlessness made him the heartbeat of Colombia’s backfield throughout the tournament.

Having impressed despite playing his club football for Racing Santander, Puerta looks set for a move to the big leagues. His do-it-all style and tactical demeanor would make him a good fit for a developing Premier League team.

Best suited: Brentford