The 2026 World Cup is still a year away, but the buzz around it is already palpable. As we look ahead to the tournament, it's fascinating to consider the players who have yet to make an impact, despite their talent and potential. In this article, I'll be taking a closer look at an XI of unused players from the quarter-finalists, and exploring the reasons behind their lack of playing time. From Arsenal's David Raya to Liverpool's Victor Munoz, these players have the skill and ability to make a difference, but for various reasons, they have been left on the sidelines. What makes this particularly intriguing is the contrast between their club and international performances. While some players excel at the club level, they struggle to make an impact for their national teams. Others, on the other hand, have the potential to become stars on the international stage, but have yet to live up to their promise. Personally, I think this XI of unused players highlights the complexities of international football and the challenges faced by players in breaking through and making an impact. It also raises questions about the role of managers and coaches in developing players and creating opportunities for them to shine. As we look ahead to the 2026 World Cup, it will be fascinating to see how these players fare and whether they can make a difference for their respective nations. In my opinion, the tournament will be a showcase of the best talent in the world, and these unused players will be eager to prove themselves and make an impact. From the goalkeeper to the striker, each player in this XI has the potential to become a star, and it will be interesting to see how they fare in the years leading up to the tournament.
