The 2026 World Cup is heating up, and for some players, the stakes are higher than ever. As the tournament progresses, a small group of players find themselves in an unusual position: technically unemployed, but still chasing glory and a chance to impress potential suitors. Among them are some well-known names, and their performances could have a significant impact on their future careers.
One such player is John Stones, a 32-year-old English defender who has spent a decade at Manchester City. Despite recent injury issues, Stones has been a key player for England under Thomas Tuchel. With his contract at City coming to an end, Stones is now linked with a return to his former club, Everton, or a move to Italian giants AC Milan. The World Cup provides him with a platform to showcase his skills and potentially secure a new deal.
Another notable name is Casemiro, a 34-year-old Brazilian midfielder who has been a stalwart for Manchester United. Released due to his high wages, Casemiro's form at the World Cup has been inconsistent. However, his crucial equaliser in Brazil's comeback win against Japan has not gone unnoticed. It is widely expected that Casemiro will join Major League Soccer outfit Inter Miami when the tournament ends, but his performances could still influence his future prospects.
David Alaba, a 33-year-old Austrian defender, is another player whose future is uncertain. A former Bayern Munich star, Alaba has enjoyed a storied club career, winning 12 league titles and four Champions Leagues with Real Madrid. Despite speculation of interest from several clubs, Alaba has yet to sign a new contract. His performances at the World Cup could be a deciding factor in his next move.
Fabinho, a 32-year-old Brazilian midfielder, is also in the spotlight. Having come to the end of his stint in the Saudi Pro League with Al Ittihad, Fabinho has expressed his desire to return to Europe. At the World Cup, he has been used largely off the bench by Brazil coach Carlo Ancelotti, but his experience and quality could still be valuable for any club.
Mohamed Salah, a 33-year-old Egyptian forward, is another player whose future is in the balance. Salah's relationship with his manager at Liverpool, Arne Slot, has been strained in recent months, and both have now left the club. It is widely expected that Salah will move to the Saudi Pro League once the World Cup is over, but his performances in the knockout stages could still influence his next move.
James Rodriguez, a 34-year-old Colombian playmaker, is also in a precarious position. While MLS side Minnesota United has an option to extend his contract, it is not yet clear if they will do so. With only six appearances in the first half of the season and just two starts, Rodriguez's future is uncertain. The World Cup provides him with a chance to prove his worth and potentially secure a new deal.
Luka Modric, a 40-year-old Croatian midfielder, is another player whose future is in doubt. While AC Milan has an option to extend his contract by another year, it is not yet clear if they will do so. Modric struggled in Croatia's group stage defeat by England but recovered to help set up a mouth-watering knockout clash with Portugal. His performances at the World Cup could be a deciding factor in his next move.
Vozinha, a 40-year-old Cape Verde goalkeeper, is another player who has caught the eye. Having gone viral for his heroic performance in his side's opening 0-0 draw with Spain, Vozinha has helped Cape Verde through to the knockout stages for the first time. Despite his contract with Chaves ending, Vozinha has expressed his desire to keep playing. His performances at the World Cup could be a turning point in his career.
In my opinion, the World Cup provides these players with a unique opportunity to showcase their skills and potentially secure their futures. While some may be more likely to attract interest than others, the tournament offers a platform for all of them to prove their worth. What makes this particularly fascinating is the uncertainty surrounding each player's next move. From the veteran Luka Modric to the young Gideon Mensah, the World Cup is a stage where dreams can be made or broken. It is a reminder that, in football, as in life, anything is possible.
