Ranking the top 50 players at the 2026 World Cup: Who were the winners and losers from the last 16?
The New York Times • • sports
Key Points:
- The Athletic ranks the top 50 players of the World Cup based on an objective player-ratings model, maintaining the list throughout the tournament regardless of team eliminations.
- Lionel Messi retains the top spot after crucial assists against Egypt, keeping Argentina’s hopes alive, closely followed by Kylian Mbappe and Harry Kane.
- Notable rises include Jude Bellingham (+8) and Erling Haaland (+3), while some players like Michael Olise (-3) and Bruno Guimaraes (-14) experienced drops due to quieter or disappointing performances.
- Spain’s defensive duo Aymeric Laporte and Pau Cubarsi have earned top-10 recognition for their solidity, contributing to Spain’s strong defensive record in the tournament.
- Emerging talents such as Anthony Gordon (+17) and Charles De Ketelaere (new entry) have made significant impacts, while veterans like Joshua Kimmich and Pedri have faced challenges maintaining their earlier form.
