As the 2026 FIFA World Cup reaches its climax, only four nations remain in the hunt for football’s biggest prize—France, Spain, England, and Argentina. While these teams have thrilled fans throughout the tournament, one surprising statistic stands out: several high-profile players have not played a single minute.
According to the latest squad data, some of the most valuable footballers at the tournament are still waiting for their World Cup debut despite their nations reaching the semi-finals.
With only the semi-finals and the final (or third-place playoff) remaining, opportunities are rapidly disappearing. The question now is simple: which of these stars deserves a chance to make an impact?
The Most Valuable Players Yet to Feature
The list is dominated by established internationals and exciting young talents whose combined market value exceeds €500 million.
| Player | Country | Age | Market Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| Martín Zubimendi | Spain | 27 | €75m |
| Kobbie Mainoo | England | 21 | €70m |
| Javi García | Spain | 25 | €45m |
| Eric García | Spain | 25 | €40m |
| Trevoh Chalobah | England | 27 | €40m |
| Risser | France | 21 | €30m |
| Muñoz | Spain | 23 | €30m |
| David Raya | Spain | 30 | €30m |
| Dean Henderson | England | 29 | €28m |
| James Trafford | England | 23 | €25m |
| Alejandro Grimaldo | Spain | 30 | €20m |
| Ivan Toney | England | 30 | €20m |
| Lucas Hernández | France | 30 | €18m |
| Brice Samba | France | 32 | €7m |
| Gerónimo Rulli | Argentina | 34 | €6m |
| N’Golo Kanté | France | 35 | €4m |
| Juan Musso | Argentina | 32 | €3m |
Spain Have Incredible Squad Depth
No nation illustrates the strength of its squad better than Spain.
Despite winning every match on their way to the semi-finals, several experienced players have yet to feature.
The most surprising omission is Martín Zubimendi, valued at €75 million. Widely regarded as one of Europe’s finest holding midfielders, he has watched Spain’s impressive campaign unfold from the bench as Rodri has dominated the midfield.
Also waiting for their opportunity are:
- David Raya
- Alejandro Grimaldo
- Eric García
- Javi García
- Muñoz
The fact that players of this calibre have not played underlines just how competitive Spain’s squad has become.
England’s Young Stars Still Waiting
England have also relied heavily on a settled starting eleven throughout the tournament.
One of the biggest surprises is Kobbie Mainoo.
The talented 21-year-old midfielder is valued at €70 million and was expected to play an important role, yet he is still waiting for his first World Cup appearance.
England manager Thomas Tuchel has preferred experience in midfield during the knockout rounds, leaving Mainoo frustrated on the sidelines.
Other England players still waiting include:
- Trevoh Chalobah
- Dean Henderson
- James Trafford
- Ivan Toney
Each offers quality in different areas, but England’s consistency has limited rotation.
France Continue to Trust Experience
France have reached another World Cup semi-final by relying on a core group of experienced players.
That has meant several respected internationals have remained unused.
Among them are:
- Lucas Hernández
- Brice Samba
- N’Golo Kanté
- Young goalkeeper Risser
Perhaps the biggest talking point is N’Golo Kanté.
The former World Cup winner remains one of football’s most respected midfielders, but at 35 years old he has yet to feature during France’s campaign.
Should Les Bleus establish a comfortable lead in either of their remaining matches, Didier Deschamps may finally hand the veteran midfielder some valuable minutes.
Argentina’s Goalkeeping Options Wait Patiently
Defending champions Argentina have relied heavily on first-choice goalkeeper Emiliano Martínez throughout the competition.
As a result, reserve goalkeepers Gerónimo Rulli and Juan Musso remain without an appearance.
Given Martínez’s outstanding performances, that situation is unlikely to change unless circumstances force Lionel Scaloni into making a switch.
Who Deserves Minutes the Most?
Several names stand out.
Martín Zubimendi
His technical ability and composure make him one of Europe’s elite midfielders. Many believe he deserves at least a substitute appearance before the tournament ends.
Kobbie Mainoo
England’s midfield lacks creativity at times, and Mainoo’s composure on the ball could offer something different during difficult moments.
Alejandro Grimaldo
After another outstanding club season, Grimaldo has proven he can influence games from left-back. Spain’s dominance may allow Luis de la Fuente to rotate during the latter stages.
Ivan Toney
England have occasionally struggled to convert chances. Toney’s aerial ability and clinical finishing could prove useful late in matches.
N’Golo Kanté
Even at 35, Kanté’s experience and work rate remain exceptional. Many fans would love to see the French legend play one final World Cup role.
Why Squad Depth Wins World Cups
Successful World Cup teams are rarely built around just eleven players.
Squad depth becomes increasingly important as fatigue, injuries and suspensions begin to affect performances during the knockout rounds.
Managers often rely on experienced substitutes to change matches, protect leads or provide fresh energy.
Although these players have not featured yet, they remain vital members of their respective squads and could still play decisive roles in the tournament’s final two matches.
Will They Get Their Chance?
With only the semi-finals and the final (or third-place playoff) remaining, opportunities are becoming increasingly limited.
Some players may finally earn minutes if their teams establish comfortable leads, while others could be called upon in extra time or penalty shootouts.
Regardless of whether they play, their presence highlights the remarkable depth of talent possessed by the four remaining nations.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 FIFA World Cup has showcased the quality of football’s biggest stars, but it has also demonstrated just how competitive elite international squads have become.
Players such as Martín Zubimendi, Kobbie Mainoo, Alejandro Grimaldo, Ivan Toney, and N’Golo Kanté would walk into many national teams, yet they are still waiting for their first appearance.
As the tournament reaches its conclusion, fans will be watching closely to see whether these talented players finally get the opportunity to leave their mark on the world’s biggest football stage.
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