The World Cup is now just hours away from beginning, and football fans across the globe are ready for a five-week feast of summer action.
Who’ll fire their team to victory at the tournament? Who will claim the Golden Boot? And which young talents will light up the tournament and become a household name overnight? In years gone by, the likes of Michael Owen, Thomas Muller and even Pelé have announced their arrival on the big stage.
Lamine Yamal is one of the teenage talents who have already exploded on the world stage, playing a crucial role for both Spain and Barcelona in recent years, though other young starlets will enter the tournament with little fanfare but leave as superstars.
Here are the 15 young players heading to the World Cup that we’re tipping to have big futures:
13. Ngal'ayel Mukau - DR Congo
Another young star who shone at Lille this season, Mukau is an aggressive, forward-thinking midfielder who will use his motor to drive DR Congo forward this summer alongside international team Noah Sadiki. On the radar of several top European clubs, the 21-year-old will be tasked with winning possession and driving forward for Sebastien Desabre's side at the tournament. | AFP via Getty Images
14. Ben Gannon-Doak - Scotland
The 20-year-old has emerged as one of Scotland's most important players over the last two years, with his directness offering Steve Clarke's side a different dimension on the wings. A hamstring injury almost completely wiped him out his debut season at AFC Bournemouth, but after recovering from the issue, he heads to the tournament with fresh legs and a determination to make his mark on the World Cup. | AFP via Getty Images Photo: Getty Images
15. Lamine Yamal - Spain
The 18-year-old Spanish playmaker needs no introduction, having already been viewed as his country's most important player despite his tender years. Enters the tournament on the back of another breath-taking season for Barcelona that saw him score 24 goals and assist a further 17. | Getty Images Photo: Getty Images