Mbappé, Cucurella, and Bellingham feature in World Cup Best XI selections

By Arjun Nair / 22.07.2026

By Arjun Nair — 22 July 2026 — 3 min read

World Cup standout performers recognised

The FIFA World Cup 2026 saw numerous players deliver memorable performances, with several individuals being highlighted for their contributions. Among those recognised for their impact were Kylian Mbappé, Marc Cucurella, and Jude Bellingham, who were included in a World Cup team of the tournament selection.

Spain, the tournament winners, had a strong representation in the team, particularly in defence. Their goalkeeper, Unai Simon, was the official award winner for best keeper. However, another selection opted for Cape Verde’s Vozinha, who delivered a notable performance against Spain, stopping them from scoring. Vozinha’s experience and crucial saves were instrumental in his team reaching the knockout stage.

In the defensive line, Spain’s Pedro Porro was chosen at right-back, playing a key role in the champion team. On the opposite flank, Marc Cucurella was considered one of the easiest selections. His defensive prowess was highlighted by his ability to contain opposing wingers, and he was noted for his role in limiting Lionel Messi’s impact in the final. Cucurella has become a regular for Spain since the summer of 2024 and is now regarded as one of the top left-backs in world football.

The central defence featured Pau Cubarsi, a 19-year-old Spaniard who was also the young player award winner. He was paired with Cristian Romero, who contributed defensively and also posed an attacking threat, initiating Argentina’s comeback against Egypt.

Midfield and attacking prowess

In midfield, Rodri was an undisputed choice, having captained Spain to the title and being named the adidas Golden Ball winner as the tournament’s best player. His exceptional positioning and precise passing were central to Spain’s play. Alongside him, Dani Olmo was selected, having started all knockout games and becoming increasingly vital as the tournament progressed. Other contenders for midfield spots included Fabian Ruiz and Pedri, with Pedri noted for his high number of interceptions and world-class passing.

The attacking lineup featured some of the biggest names in football. Kylian Mbappé, the Golden Boot winner, occupied the left-wing position. He finished as the tournament’s top scorer with 10 goals, leading to him becoming the first player to be top scorer in successive tournaments. Mbappé also demonstrated maturity in leading France past Paraguay in the last 16.

On the right, Lionel Messi was included. While his goals became less frequent in the later stages, he was instrumental in Argentina’s semi-final comeback against England. Messi guided Argentina to the final and was the tournament’s Silver Ball and Silver Boot winner.

Centrally, Jude Bellingham slotted into the number 10 position. He scored seven goals, a record for an England player at a World Cup, and was recognised with the adidas Bronze Boot. Bellingham’s maturity, vision, and energy were highlighted, as he influenced every phase of the game and scored crucial goals on the way to the semi-finals.

Striking options and notable mentions

For the lone striker position, Erling Haaland was chosen. He was a consistent threat throughout the tournament, with memorable moments including a brace against Brazil in the last 16. Haaland’s seven goals edged out Harry Kane, who also had a strong tournament, inspiring England to a third-place finish with decisive performances and vital goals.

Haaland’s scoring prowess extended beyond the tournament, as he had found the net in 14 consecutive internationals spanning over 600 days by the time Norway met England in the quarter-finals. An honourable mention was given to Spain’s Mikel Oyarzabal, who scored five times and proved to be a more consistent threat than anticipated.

Other players shortlisted for the best player award included Lamine Yamal, who dazzled throughout Spain’s title-winning campaign, and Ousmane Dembele, who played a key role in France’s attacking charge with important goals and assists.

Rodri, Kylian Mbappé, Lionel Messi, Lamine Yamal, Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Erling Haaland, Ousmane Dembele, and Vozinha were among the nine stars considered for the ultimate honour of the tournament’s best player.

Source: bbc.com