While names like Messi, Mbappé, and Bellingham dominate headlines, this year’s Club World Cup won’t really be about them.
With the main stars likely resting after a grueling season, the real spotlight will fall on football’s next generation—the future icons preparing to make their mark.
This tournament could become a career-changing stage for young talents you might not know yet—but by the time next season kicks off, you’ll probably be seeing a lot more of them.
Let’s take a closer look at the young guns ready to shine.
Federico Redondo: Big Name, Bigger Expectations
Age: 22
Club: Inter Miami
Country: Argentina
Position: Defensive Midfielder
He’s not that Inter Miami Argentine, but Federico Redondo carries a legacy of his own.
Son of Fernando Redondo—once a Real Madrid maestro—Federico plays the same role: the calm and commanding No. 5 in midfield.
At 6’3″, he brings strength and control, ideal traits for a midfield anchor.
MLS clubs are investing smartly these days, eyeing South American talent to polish and sell on.
If Redondo stays fit and delivers on this stage, Europe will definitely be watching.
Tom Bischof: Bayern’s Next Big Bet
Age: 19
Club: Bayern Munich
Country: Germany
Position: Central Midfielder
When Bayern Munich comes knocking, it’s hard to say no.
Tom Bischof made the leap from Hoffenheim for just £250,000—an incredible bargain for a player of his quality.
But breaking into Bayern’s star-packed midfield is no easy feat.
This tournament could be his window to show new boss Vincent Kompany that he deserves a regular place.
With many first-team stars likely resting, Bischof has the stage to shine.
Estevao: Brazil’s Wonderkid Prepping for Chelsea
Age: 18
Club: Palmeiras (joining Chelsea)
Country: Brazil
Position: Winger
Chelsea have already splashed £29m to bring him to Stamford Bridge, and now the world will get a taste of why.
Estevao is expected to be a Premier League sensation, but first, he’s aiming to help Palmeiras leave a mark in the Club World Cup.
He’s already earned five senior caps for Brazil.
With the World Cup a year away, this tournament is a perfect warm-up to stake his claim for a national team spot.
Rodrigo Mora: Portugal’s Creative Spark
Age: 18
Club: Porto
Country: Portugal
Position: Attacking Midfielder
Rodrigo Mora already made headlines with his Europa League debut at just 17.
He was a standout at the Under-17 Euros and now he’s pushing toward stardom with Porto—10 goals and 4 assists this season says it all.
Mora’s recent call-up to Portugal’s Nations League-winning squad shows just how highly rated he is.
This tournament could be the final step before a big-money move or a bigger role at Porto.
Obed Vargas: From Alaska to the World Stage
Age: 19
Club: Seattle Sounders
Country: Mexico
Position: Central Midfielder
Born in Alaska but playing for Mexico, Vargas is one of the most exciting prospects in North America.
Clubs across Europe, especially Atletico Madrid, are lining up for him.
A deep-lying midfielder who covers ground and contributes in attack, he’s turning heads with data alone.
This could be his MLS farewell—expect him in a top European league before summer’s over.
Julien Duranville: Dortmund’s Next Flare-Up
Age: 19
Club: Borussia Dortmund
Country: Belgium
Position: Winger
Dortmund’s flair for spotting talent hasn’t faded.
With 22 appearances under his belt and the potential for more minutes if Jamie Gittens departs, Duranville is ready to break through.
A natural winger on both flanks, this tournament is the perfect springboard to get into Belgium’s World Cup squad.
Siyabonga Mabena: South Africa’s Shining Star
Age: 18
Club: Mamelodi Sundowns
Country: South Africa
Position: Forward
Charismatic, fearless, and full of flair, Mabena is already performing Steph Curry’s ‘sleep’ celebration after scoring.
Now, he wants to bring that confidence to the world stage in the U.S.
Sundowns may not go far, but Mabena’s individual brilliance could make global scouts take notice.
He dreams of Europe, and this could be his ticket.
Petar Sucic: Inter’s Midfield Maestro in the Making
Age: 21
Club: Inter Milan
Country: Croatia
Position: Central Midfielder
Inter Milan are rebuilding, and Petar Sucic might be the piece they need.
Signed from Dinamo Zagreb for £12m, he’s a versatile midfielder who can operate as a No 6 or No 8.
With experienced midfielders aging out, Sucic has the perfect chance to step in under new coach Cristian Chivu.
If he settles fast, he could become a fixture at the San Siro.
Marcos Leonardo: Brazil’s Goal Machine in Saudi Arabia
Age: 22
Club: Al Hilal
Country: Brazil
Position: Forward
After netting 17 times in 24 Saudi Pro League games, Marcos Leonardo has proven he can score—but can he still grow?
Once tipped to be Brazil’s next great striker, he’s now pondering his next move.
This tournament could reignite European interest.
And with the World Cup approaching, Leonardo knows now’s the time to step back into the spotlight.
Kenan Yildiz: Juventus’ £100m Project
Age: 20
Club: Juventus
Country: Turkey
Position: Attacking Midfielder / Winger
Juventus are doubling down on youth, and Yildiz is at the center of that strategy.
Though still developing, his raw talent is unmistakable.
If he delivers on his promise, Juve could have a player worth nine figures.
This tournament could mark the start of his rise to that level.
Antonio Silva: Portugal’s Next Defensive Rock
Age: 21
Club: Benfica
Country: Portugal
Position: Centre Back
Portugal has a rich history of producing top-tier defenders, and Antonio Silva might be the next big name.
With 17 senior caps already, he’s strong, technically sharp, and reads the game like a veteran.
He’s aggressive but composed, and this competition is a chance to show the world he’s more than just Pepe’s heir.
Franco Mastantuono: Madrid’s Teenage Prodigy
Age: 17
Club: River Plate (joining Real Madrid)
Country: Argentina
Position: Midfielder
He’s only 17, but Franco Mastantuono plays like a seasoned pro.
He’s already a fan favorite at River Plate and has caught the attention of Real Madrid, who’ve secured his future for a reported £39m.
This kid scored a derby-winning free-kick in the Superclasico during his school exams.
If that’s not a sign of greatness, what is?