The 2026 FIFA World Cup is fast approaching, and with it, the opportunity for players to showcase their talents and secure lucrative moves. This article highlights 11 players who are currently out of contract and could be key players for their respective national teams in the upcoming tournament. These players have the potential to impress and earn themselves a new club deal, with their performances in North America potentially attracting the attention of top clubs worldwide.
The Players
Goalkeeper: Maty Ryan
Maty Ryan, an Australian veteran, is a strong candidate for his country's starting goalkeeper spot. With a successful track record at Levante, Ryan is a free agent after his contract expired. His experience and ability to perform at the highest level make him a valuable asset for any team.
Right-Back: Zeki Celik
Zeki Celik, a Turkish player, has been a key player for Roma for four years. His versatility, playing both as a right-back and wing-back, makes him a valuable asset. With Turkey's recent success in reaching the semi-finals of the 2002 World Cup, Celik could be a key player in their campaign.
Centre-Back: Ibrahima Konate
Ibrahima Konate, a French player, is on the verge of joining Real Madrid. Despite a poor season, his talent and potential have not gone unnoticed. With Madrid's interest, Konate could be a key player for his country and a potential star for his new club.
Centre-Back: John Stones
John Stones, a 31-year-old English player, has been a consistent performer for his country. Despite injuries, his talent and experience make him a sought-after player. With Everton's interest and potential moves abroad, Stones could be a key player for his country and a valuable addition to any team.
Left-Back: Takehiro Tomiyasu
Takehiro Tomiyasu, a Japanese player, spent four years at Arsenal before joining Ajax. With his contract expired, he is a free agent. His performances for Japan could earn him a new deal, with his versatility and ability to play as a full-back making him a valuable asset.
Defensive Midfielder: Fabinho
Fabinho, a Brazilian player, has been a key player for his country. With his contract ending, he is a free agent. Despite his age, his experience and ability to provide cover make him a valuable asset for any team.
Central Midfielder: Leon Goretzka
Leon Goretzka, a 31-year-old German player, is a free agent after eight years at Bayern. With a good showing at the World Cup, he could attract interest from top clubs. His experience and ability to perform at the highest level make him a valuable asset.
Central Midfielder: Xaver Schlager
Xaver Schlager, an Austrian player, is a free agent after declining a new contract offer. With his performances for RB Leipzig, he could earn a new deal. His versatility and ability to play as a midfielder make him a valuable asset for any team.
Right-Winger: Mohamed Salah
Mohamed Salah, an Egyptian player, has been a key player for his country. Despite a difficult final year at Liverpool, his talent and experience make him a sought-after player. With potential moves to Saudi Arabia or Italy, Salah could be a key player for his country and a valuable addition to any team.
Left-Winger: Bernardo Silva
Bernardo Silva, a Portuguese player, has been a key player for his country. With his contract ending, he is a free agent. With potential moves to Spain, his experience and ability to perform at the highest level make him a valuable asset.
Striker: Memphis Depay
Memphis Depay, a Dutch player, is a free agent after his contract with Corinthians expires. With an impressive goal record, he could earn a new deal. Despite his age, his talent and experience make him a valuable asset for any team.
Conclusion
The 2026 FIFA World Cup provides an opportunity for players to showcase their talents and secure lucrative moves. With a strong lineup of players, these 11 players could be key players for their respective national teams and potential stars for their new clubs. Their performances in North America could attract the attention of top clubs worldwide, making them valuable assets in the transfer market.
